Traditional Challa Bread: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 cup lukewarm water
  • 8 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons salt
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Sesame or poppy seeds for topping (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the yeast, sugar, and 1/2 cup lukewarm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix together the honey, 1 1/2 cups lukewarm water, eggs, and oil.
  4. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the yeast mixture and the honey mixture. Stir until a dough is formed.
  5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic.
  6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 1/2 hours, until it has doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the dough and divide it into six equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 18 inches long. Braid the ropes together to form the challah loaf.
  8. Place the loaf on a greased baking sheet, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 45 minutes, until it has doubled in size.
  9. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  10. In a small bowl, mix together the egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of water. Brush this mixture over the top of the loaf.
  11. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds over the top of the loaf, if desired.
  12. Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  13. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing bowls - You will need various sizes of mixing bowls to combine and mix the ingredients.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - These are necessary to accurately measure the ingredients, such as sugar, water, and oil.
  • Whisk or fork - Use a whisk or fork to mix the yeast, sugar, and water mixture until it becomes frothy.
  • Baking sheet - A greased baking sheet is needed to place the challah loaf on before baking.
  • Pastry brush - Use a pastry brush to brush the egg yolk and water mixture over the loaf before baking.
  • Wire rack - Allow the challah to cool on a wire rack after baking to prevent it from getting soggy on the bottom.
  • Flour and dough scraper - This tool will help you scrape the dough off the working surface and shape it.
  • Damp cloth - Cover the dough with a damp cloth to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out during rising.

Recipe variations

  • Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
  • Adding raisins, dried cranberries, or other dried fruits to the dough for a fruity twist.
  • Replacing the vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
  • Adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a spiced challah.
  • Using a mixture of different seeds (such as sesame, poppy, and flax seeds) for a multi-seed topping.
  • Making mini challah rolls by dividing the dough into smaller portions and shaping them into individual rolls.
  • Using different shapes for the challah, such as a round shape for special occasions.
  • Adding grated cheese or herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for a savory challah.
  • Creating a chocolate-filled challah by spreading a layer of chocolate spread or chips on the dough before braiding it.
  • Making a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.

Recipe overview

This is a traditional recipe for Challah, a Jewish bread that is typically braided and eaten on Sabbath and Jewish holidays. Making Challah is a time-honored tradition that can be quite therapeutic and enjoyable. The bread itself is sweet and fluffy, with a beautiful golden crust that's decorated with poppy or sesame seeds. This recipe requires some time as the dough needs to rise twice, but the result is a beautifully braided loaf that's perfect for sharing. Whether you're familiar with Jewish traditions or simply love baking bread, making Challah is a rewarding endeavor that brings a touch of tradition to your kitchen.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take for the dough to rise? The dough needs to rise for about 1 1/2 hours initially, and then for an additional 45 minutes after shaping into a loaf.
  2. How many loaves does this recipe make? This recipe makes one challah loaf.
  3. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. However, you may need to adjust the rising time as instant yeast may rise faster.
  4. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can use bread flour if you prefer a slightly chewier texture. Keep in mind that the texture of the challah may be slightly different compared to when using all-purpose flour.
  5. Can I freeze the challah? Yes, you can freeze the challah after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw it at room temperature when ready to use.
  6. Can I use a bread machine to make the dough? Yes, you can use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Follow your bread machine's instructions for the appropriate dough setting.
  7. Can I add raisins or other mix-ins to the dough? Yes, you can add raisins or other mix-ins to the dough during the mixing step. Fold them in gently so they are evenly distributed.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Challah is a deeply symbolic and traditional bread that holds a special place in Jewish culture. It traces its roots back to the time of the biblical commandment of "hafrashat challah," where a piece of dough was set aside for the High Priest in the Jerusalem Temple. The bread's trademark braids are rich with symbolism, many suggesting that they represent love, truth, peace, creation, freedom, and the Sabbath. Interestingly, the number of strands in a challah braid can bear different meanings. A six-strand challah might symbolize the six days of creation, while a twelve-strand challah could represent each tribe of Israel. Today, baking challah has become an act of meditation and a connection to history, making it a truly special part of meals, particularly for the Sabbath and Jewish holiday celebrations.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.