This classic Challah is a beloved centerpiece for Jewish holidays and Shabbat dinners, known for its intricate braided shape and tender, fluffy texture. Enriched with eggs, sugar, and butter, this dough yields a bread that is distinctively soft and slightly sweet, with a beautiful golden crust that shatters gently when torn. The recipe relies on simple pantry staples like unbleached flour, yeast, and eggs to create a comforting, home-baked experience. Whether served fresh from the oven with jam or used for French toast, this bread brings warmth and tradition to your table. It requires some patience for rising, but the result is a stunning loaf that impresses guests and satisfies family cravings alike.
Challah, Favorite Recipe
Description
This classic Challah is a beloved centerpiece for Jewish holidays and Shabbat dinners, known for its intricate braided shape and tender, fluffy texture. Enriched with eggs, sugar, and butter, this dough yields a bread that is distinctively soft and slightly sweet, with a beautiful golden crust that shatters gently when torn. The recipe relies on simple pantry staples like unbleached flour, yeast, and eggs to create a comforting, home-baked experience. Whether served fresh from the oven with jam or used for French toast, this bread brings warmth and tradition to your table. It requires some patience for rising, but the result is a stunning loaf that impresses guests and satisfies family cravings alike.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry yeast, salt, sugar, and about one-third of the flour.
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Beat in the cold water, butter, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
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Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing until the dough is too stiff to beat.
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Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal portions.
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Roll each portion into a long rope, about 18 to 20 inches long.
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Braid the three ropes together, tucking the ends underneath to secure.
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Place the braided loaf on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let rise for another 45 minutes until puffed.
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Preheat the oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
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Brush the top of the loaf with the egg wash mixture.
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Sprinkle with golden raising or sesame seeds if desired.
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Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the bread is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
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Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 4542.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 51.7g80%
- Saturated Fat 14.7g74%
- Cholesterol 279.8mg94%
- Sodium 20624.6mg860%
- Total Carbohydrate 906.3g303%
- Dietary Fiber 35.3g142%
- Sugars 197.0g
- Protein 109.5g219%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
