Description
A soft, slightly sweet, and beautifully braided bread, Challah is perfect for holidays, gatherings, or turning into the best French toast ever.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure and base of the dough
- 2¼ teaspoons Active Dry Yeast – Leavens the bread and makes it rise
- ¾ cup Warm Water – Activates the yeast and hydrates the dough
- 4 large Eggs – Adds richness, color, and structure
- ¼ cup Granulated Sugar – Provides a gentle sweetness
- ¼ cup Vegetable Oil – Keeps the crumb soft and tender
- 1½ teaspoons Salt – Enhances flavor
- Sesame Seeds (optional) – Adds texture and nutty flavor on top
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and a teaspoon of sugar in the warm water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add eggs, remaining sugar, oil, and salt. Stir in flour one cup at a time until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead by hand for 10 minutes or in a stand mixer for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1½ to 2 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down dough, divide into strands, braid, and place on baking sheet.
- Brush with beaten egg, sprinkle sesame seeds if using, and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until deep golden and loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool on wire rack before slicing.
Notes
- Double-brush with egg wash for extra shine.
- Let dough rise in a warm place for best results.
- Use a kitchen scale for even strand sizes.
- Add raisins or cinnamon for a twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg