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Maya

Challah Bread: Discover the Secrets to Perfect Loaves!

Challah Bread is a traditional Jewish bread, known for its rich flavor and beautiful braided shape. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Bread
Cuisine: Jewish
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon instant yeast
  • 1 cup warm water about 110°F
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 large egg plus 1 for egg wash
  • Sesame seeds or poppy seeds optional, for topping

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix well to combine the dry ingredients.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm water, vegetable oil, and 1 egg.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  6. Once risen, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide it into three equal pieces.
  7. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12-15 inches long.
  8. Braid the three ropes together to form a loaf, pinching the ends to seal.
  9. Place the braided loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  10. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  11. Brush the top of the loaf with the remaining beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
  12. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  13. Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g

Notes

  • For a sweeter bread, add 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the wet ingredients.
  • Try adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to the dough for a fruity twist.

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