Challah Bread Recipe

Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes  

   Prep Time: 30 minutes

Challah Bread Ingredients

Challah Bread Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine 1 cup warm water (110°F) with 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast and 2 tablespoons honey. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups bread flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons fine sea salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs, 1 large egg yolk, and 1/4 cup neutral oil until well combined.
  4. Pour the yeast mixture and the egg-oil mixture into the flour mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, adding a little flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  6. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into three equal pieces and roll each into a long rope, about 16 inches long.
  8. Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends to seal, and tuck the ends underneath. Place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  9. Cover the shaped challah loosely with a towel and let rise for 45-60 minutes, or until puffy and nearly doubled in size.
  10. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) about 20 minutes before baking.
  11. In a small bowl, whisk 1 large egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush the risen challah generously with the egg wash.
  12. Sprinkle the top of the challah with 1 tablespoon poppy seeds, 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, and 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt.
  13. Bake the challah for 28-32 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the loaf is deep golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  14. Transfer the baked challah to a wire rack and let cool completely before slicing.

Estimated Calories: 327, Servings: 3

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Challah Story

Serving my version of this dish was like handing someone a familiar book with a new ending. I expected polite nods and the usual compliments, but instead, my friend's reaction was a thunderclap in a quiet room. She paused, eyes wide, and declared it the best she had ever tasted, as if she had stumbled upon a secret chapter in a story she thought she knew by heart. Her words tumbled out, comparing it to a memory of her grandmother's kitchen, and I realized that sometimes a recipe can be a time machine, transporting someone to a place they thought was lost.
The conversation that followed was like a river carving a new path through old stone. She asked for the recipe, marveling at how something so delicious could be so easy and quick to make. It was as if she had discovered a shortcut on a well worn trail, a way to bring a piece of her past into her present without the usual effort. Her excitement was contagious, and I found myself seeing my own creation through her eyes, appreciating the healthy simplicity and the fast comfort it brought.
That moment stayed with me, echoing like a favorite song that resurfaces when you least expect it. It reminded me that sharing food is not just about filling plates, but about building bridges between memories and new experiences. The great surprise of her reaction taught me that even the most familiar traditions can be refreshed, and that a good meal, made with care, can open doors to connection in the most unexpected ways.

Challah Quick Mistake Fixes

Imagine biting into a slice of bread and feeling as if you just took a gulp of seawater. That is what happens when salt takes center stage instead of playing a supporting role. The best loaf is like a well-rehearsed orchestra, where every note is in harmony, not one instrument blaring above the rest. Too much salt can overshadow the naturally sweet and yeasty notes, making what should be a delicious and healthy treat into something that leaves you reaching for water. A good approach is to remember that salt is like a pinch of humor in a conversation: just enough makes everything better, but too much can ruin the mood.
Picture a beautiful braid that looks perfect on the outside but feels like chewing on a dry sponge. Overcooking is the culprit here, turning what should be a soft, pillowy experience into something more suited for a game of catch. The best results come from treating the dough like a delicate sweater in the laundry: too much heat and time, and it shrinks and toughens. A great loaf is easy to tear, with a tender crumb that invites you back for another bite, not one that makes you wish for a glass of milk just to get it down.
Sometimes, even with the best intentions, the final product can look more like a lumpy log than a showstopper centerpiece. Appearance is the first impression, much like a quick smile at a party that draws people in. A good loaf should have a golden, shiny crust and a neat, even braid, making it as inviting as a beautifully wrapped gift. Fast fixes, like a last minute egg wash or a gentle reshaping before baking, can turn a so-so presentation into something that looks as delicious as it tastes, proving that a little attention to detail goes a long way in making a recipe truly special.

About Challah Recipe

If you're on the hunt for the best homemade bread, this Israeli Challah recipe is about to become your new obsession. Forget store-bought loaves-this easy and quick recipe will have your kitchen smelling like a bakery in no time. The secret to a perfect, authentic Challah is all in the ingredients and a few simple tips. Want to know how to make it extra tasty? Don't skimp on the eggs, and give that dough a good braid-your Instagram followers will thank you.
Making this delicious bread isn't just about following a recipe; it's about embracing the art of baking. With this easy and quick guide, you'll learn how to make the best Challah that's both fluffy and golden. The ingredients are simple, but the results are anything but ordinary. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a total newbie, these tips will help you achieve that perfect, shiny crust and soft, pillowy inside. Plus, it's a great excuse to show off your braiding skills-just don't let anyone catch you eating half the loaf before dinner.
If you're still wondering how to make the best Israeli bread, this Challah recipe is your answer. It's delicious, authentic, and surprisingly simple to whip up at home. The combination of easy steps, quick prep, and tasty results makes this the perfect recipe for any occasion. Don't forget to gather all your ingredients before you start, and remember: the best Challah is the one you make yourself (and maybe share, if you're feeling generous).

Challah Pairings

Flavors in the world of bread are like the personalities at a lively dinner party, each bringing their own charm to the table. The best companions for a rich, eggy loaf are those that balance its sweetness and soft texture, much like a quick-witted friend who knows just when to lighten the mood. A good recipe for flavor pairing is to think of contrasts: a tangy fruit preserve or a savory herbed butter can be as refreshing as a cool breeze on a warm day, making each bite feel both familiar and exciting. The delicious aroma of freshly baked bread is a fast ticket to comfort, and the right flavors can turn a simple meal into a great celebration.
When it comes to drinks, choosing the right one is like picking the perfect soundtrack for a road trip: it sets the tone and enhances the experience. A healthy, non-alcoholic option such as a lightly sweetened mint tea or a tart pomegranate juice can be as invigorating as a quick morning jog, bringing out the best in the bread's subtle notes. For those who prefer something with a bit more spirit, a crisp white wine or a sparkling cider can be as easy and uplifting as a good laugh among friends, making the meal feel both special and approachable.
Sides are the supporting actors in the meal's story, each one playing a role that makes the main character shine. A fast and easy salad of ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs is like a burst of color in a black and white photograph, adding freshness and crunch to every bite. A delicious bowl of creamy hummus or a tangy labneh can be the best kind of sidekick, always ready to step in and elevate the experience. With the right sides, even a simple slice of bread can become the centerpiece of a great, healthy gathering.

Challah Tips

Baking a homemade Challah is like weaving a beautiful tapestry-each strand and step adds to the final masterpiece. To achieve the best, authentic Israeli bread, treat your dough with the same care an artist gives their canvas. Knead until it's smooth and elastic, ensuring the gluten develops for that perfect, fluffy texture. Think of the braiding process as braiding hair: even, gentle tension creates a uniform, eye-catching loaf.
For a quick and easy recipe, imagine assembling a puzzle-each ingredient fits together to create a delicious, cohesive whole. Use room-temperature ingredients for a simple, seamless blend, and let the dough rise in a warm spot, like letting bread bask in the sun for a golden finish. For a tasty, golden crust, brush with egg wash before baking, just as a painter adds a final gloss to their work.
If you want your Challah to stand out at the table, consider adding a sprinkle of sesame or poppy seeds, much like adding accessories to an outfit for that extra flair. For the best results, follow these tips: measure ingredients precisely, allow enough time for rising, and don't rush the process-patience is the secret ingredient to a perfect, authentic loaf. Learning how to make this Israeli classic is like mastering a favorite family recipe: practice, attention to detail, and a touch of love make all the difference.