Go Back Email Link

Challah

This egg-rich bread is traditionally served in Jewish households to begin the Sabbath. Try serving for breakfast with fruit preserves or slice thick and use to make superb French toast. Watch video tutorial below.
Challah
Yield 1 loaf

Ingredients

  • 3 cups bread flour
  • 1 (0.25oz) package (7g) or 2 1/4 teaspoons Red Star Active Dry Yeast
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 cup warm water (120-130°F)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • Egg wash: 1 egg plus 1 tablespoon water (whisked together)
  • Sesame seeds (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  • In stand mixer bowl, add 1 cup flour, yeast, sugar and salt; mix well. Add warm water and oil to flour mixture. Using a paddle attachment, blend on low speed for 30 seconds. Beat on medium speed for 4 minutes. Add eggs; beat 1 minute.
  • Switch to dough hook attachment. Gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a firm dough. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 to 7 minutes.
    (NOTE: For hand mixing: following above steps, mix ingredients in large mixing bowl using a wooden spoon or dough whisk. Knead on floured surface until smooth and elastic.)
  • Place dough in lightly oiled bowl and turn to grease top. Cover; let rise until indentation remains after poking dough with finger down to second knuckle, about 1 hour.
  • Turn dough onto lightly floured surface; punch down to remove air bubbles. Roll or pat into a 12x6-inch rectangle. Cut into two 3x12-inch strips. Twist the strips together. Place in a 9x5-inch greased bread pan or on a greased cookie sheet. Cover; let rise until indentation remains after touching.
  • Preheat oven to 400°F.
  • For a shiny crust, brush loaf with egg wash. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from pan; cool on wire rack.

Notes

Get Bread Machine Method here.
Photo by Food Wanderings.