This Challah Or Koilitch+ is a traditional Jewish bread known for its soft, fluffy interior and shiny, golden crust. The dough is enriched with eggs and butter, creating a tender crumb that is far superior to standard white bread. The unique “koilitch” shape features two braids stacked atop one another, making it a stunning centerpiece for any table. Ideal for dipping in soup, using for French toast, or simply enjoying with butter and jam, this bread brings warmth and tradition to your kitchen. It requires patience for rising, but the result is a deeply satisfying, aromatic loaf that tastes best fresh from the oven.
Challah Or Koilitch+
Description
This Challah Or Koilitch+ is a traditional Jewish bread known for its soft, fluffy interior and shiny, golden crust. The dough is enriched with eggs and butter, creating a tender crumb that is far superior to standard white bread. The unique "koilitch" shape features two braids stacked atop one another, making it a stunning centerpiece for any table. Ideal for dipping in soup, using for French toast, or simply enjoying with butter and jam, this bread brings warmth and tradition to your kitchen. It requires patience for rising, but the result is a deeply satisfying, aromatic loaf that tastes best fresh from the oven.Ingredients
Directions
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In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the yeast, sugar, and tepid water. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy and active.
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In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
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Add the beaten eggs and melted (cooled) butter to the yeast mixture.
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Gradually add about two-thirds of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed for 2 minutes until a shaggy dough forms.
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Add the remaining flour gradually, mixing until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls away cleanly from the sides of the bowl. Knead for an additional 5-7 minutes if using a dough hook.
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Lightly grease a large bowl with oil or butter. Place the dough in the bowl, turning once to coat the top. Cover tightly with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
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Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
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Punch down the dough to release air. Remove it to a lightly floured surface and divide into two portions: one large (about 2/3 of the dough) and one small (about 1/3).
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Divide the large portion into three equal strands. Braid them together to form a loaf approximately 1 foot long. Place this braid on a lightly greased baking sheet, centered.
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Brush the large braid lightly with the reserved egg yolk to help the top layer adhere.
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Divide the smaller portion into three equal strands. Braid them together to form a loaf approximately 10 inches long.
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Place the smaller braid on top of the larger braid, centering it. Press down gently with the side of your hand to ensure it sticks to the bottom braid.
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Brush the top braid generously with the remaining egg yolk. Sprinkle liberally with poppy seeds (if using).
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Cover the shaped loaf loosely with a towel and let rise again in a warm place for 40 minutes, or until puffy but not over-proofed.
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Preheat oven to 375&# 194;°F (190ðC).
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Bake the challah for 40 to 45 minutes. Check at 25 minutes; if the top is browning too quickly, tent loosely with aluminum foil.
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Bake until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and is deep golden brown. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1105.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12.1g19%
- Saturated Fat 5.3g27%
- Cholesterol 151.1mg51%
- Sodium 9810.9mg409%
- Total Carbohydrate 212.3g71%
- Dietary Fiber 7.4g30%
- Sugars 5.0g
- Protein 29.4g59%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.