Name: Round Challah with Dukkah
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: PT-490750H26M27S
Cuisine: Middle Eastern inspired
Ingredients: 4 cups all purpose flour; 1 cup warm water; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup neutral oil; 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash); 1/3 cup dukkah spice blend

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There is something deeply comforting about a round challah coming out of the oven, warm, glossy, and fragrant, and when you add a nutty dukkah crust on top, it becomes something truly special. The soft pull apart bread meets toasted spices and seeds, and let me tell you, it is worth every bite. This loaf feels festive yet cozy, perfect for slowing down and tearing off a piece while it is still warm.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born from a quiet afternoon of baking, when I wanted something familiar but with a little twist. Challah has always felt like a hug in bread form, and dukkah has that bold, earthy personality that wakes everything up. Bringing them together felt natural, like two old friends meeting in the same kitchen.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Challah is traditionally associated with Jewish baking, often shaped into beautiful braids and enjoyed during holidays and gatherings. The round shape is especially symbolic, representing continuity and togetherness. Dukkah, on the other hand, comes from Egypt and is a blend of nuts, seeds, and spices meant for dipping or sprinkling. Combining the two creates a cross cultural loaf that feels both rooted and playful.

Why You’ll Love Round Challah with Dukkah

This loaf has a way of winning people over quickly, and here is why it keeps earning a spot on the table.

Versatile: It works just as well with savory spreads as it does alongside soups or salads, and it even makes an amazing sandwich base.

Budget-Friendly: Simple pantry staples and a small amount of spices go a long way here.

Quick and Easy: The steps are straightforward, and the dough is forgiving, which makes it great even if you are new to bread baking.

Customizable: You can tweak the dukkah blend to match what you love most, more nuts, more seeds, or extra spice.

Crowd-Pleasing: That golden crust and soft interior make this loaf disappear fast.

Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough can be prepared in advance, which takes pressure off baking day.

Great for Leftovers: Any extra slices toast beautifully the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Before we roll up our sleeves, here are a few insider tips that make all the difference. Let the dough rise fully, do not rush it. Use a light hand when shaping to keep the crumb airy. And always toast your dukkah ingredients lightly, because that is where the deep flavor really blooms.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools nearby makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Mixing Bowl: Large enough to give the dough space to grow as it rises.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters in bread baking.

Baking Sheet: A sturdy sheet lined with parchment keeps the loaf from sticking.

Pastry Brush: Perfect for brushing on the egg wash evenly.

Ingredients in Round Challah with Dukkah

Each ingredient here plays a role, coming together in a soft, aromatic loaf with a crunchy crown.

All Purpose Flour: 4 cups, forms the structure of the bread and gives it a tender crumb.
Warm Water: 1 cup, activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
Active Dry Yeast: 2 and 1 quarter teaspoons, responsible for the rise and light texture.
Sugar: 1 quarter cup, adds subtle sweetness and feeds the yeast.
Salt: 1 and 1 half teaspoons, balances flavor throughout the loaf.
Eggs: 2 large, add richness and color to the dough.
Neutral Oil: 1 quarter cup, keeps the challah soft and moist.
Egg for Egg Wash: 1 large, beaten, creates that glossy golden finish.
Dukkah Spice Blend: 1 third cup, provides crunch and warm, nutty flavor on top.

Ingredient Substitutions

Sometimes you need to improvise, and that is totally fine.

All Purpose Flour: Bread flour for a slightly chewier texture.

Sugar: Honey for a deeper, floral sweetness.

Neutral Oil: Light olive oil for a subtle savory note.

Ingredient Spotlight

Dukkah Spice Blend: This mix of nuts, seeds, and spices brings texture and boldness, turning a simple loaf into something memorable.

Eggs: They enrich the dough and help create that signature challah softness.

Instructions for Making Round Challah with Dukkah

Now let’s dive into the heart of it, the part where the kitchen starts to smell amazing.

Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar, then let it sit until foamy. Add eggs, oil, salt, and gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead until smooth, then place it in a lightly oiled bowl and cover.
Assemble the Dish: Once risen, divide the dough, roll into strands, and braid into a round loaf, tucking the ends underneath.
Cook to Perfection: Transfer to the baking sheet, brush with egg wash, sprinkle generously with dukkah, and bake until golden.
Finishing Touches: Let the challah cool slightly so the crumb sets properly.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice or tear and enjoy while still warm.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The magic here is in the contrast. The interior stays pillowy and tender, while the top bakes into a crunchy, aromatic crust. As it bakes, the spices toast gently, releasing warm, nutty aromas that fill the room.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

A few small details can elevate your loaf even more.

Let the dough rise in a warm, draft free spot.
Press the dukkah gently into the egg wash so it sticks.
Rotate the baking sheet halfway for even color.

What to Avoid

Even simple bread has a few common pitfalls.

Do not add too much flour, or the loaf can turn dense.
Avoid skipping the resting time after baking.
Do not bake at too high a temperature, or the top may brown too quickly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 10 slices
Calories per serving: 260

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour plus rising time

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the dough a day ahead and let it rise slowly in the fridge. Baked challah keeps well wrapped at room temperature for two days, or it can be frozen and reheated gently in the oven.

How to Serve Round Challah with Dukkah

Serve it alongside soups, dip it in olive oil, or use it as a base for open faced sandwiches. Trust me, you’re going to love this with a simple spread and a hot drink.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftover slices make incredible toast, croutons, or even a savory bread pudding with vegetables and herbs.

Additional Tips

Brush the loaf with egg wash twice for extra shine, and always cool it on a rack to keep the bottom crisp.

Make It a Showstopper

Place the loaf on a wooden board and let the dukkah topping take center stage. The round shape alone feels celebratory.

Variations to Try

Add sesame seeds to the dukkah for extra crunch. Mix in a touch of cumin for warmth. Shape the dough into smaller rolls for individual servings.

FAQ’s

1. Can I make this dough by hand?

Yes, kneading by hand works beautifully and helps you feel when the dough is ready.

2. Can I use instant yeast instead?

Yes, just reduce the rising time slightly.

3. What if I do not have dukkah?

You can make a simple blend with nuts, seeds, and mild spices.

4. Can I freeze the baked challah?

Absolutely, wrap it well and freeze for up to two months.

5. How do I keep the topping from falling off?

Make sure the egg wash fully coats the surface before adding dukkah.

6. Is the round shape necessary?

No, but it adds a lovely visual and symbolic touch.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it scales well for gatherings.

8. Why is my challah dense?

It likely needed more rising time.

9. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, slightly, but it helps with browning and flavor.

10. How do I know it is fully baked?

Tap the bottom, it should sound hollow.

Conclusion

Round challah with dukkah is one of those recipes that feels both comforting and exciting at the same time. It is familiar, yet surprising, and once you try it, this one’s a total game changer. Give it a go, and enjoy every warm, crunchy, tender bite.