Challah bread, with its soft and slightly sweet taste, is a beloved staple in many households. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, making your own challah bread can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only does it fill your home with the enticing aroma of freshly baked bread, but it also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. In this article, we’ll share some easy challah bread recipes that will have you impressing your family and friends in no time.
Classic Challah Bread Recipe
Ingredients:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 egg yolk, beaten (for brushing)
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions (usually 3 or 6, depending on how you want to braid it).
Roll each portion into a long rope and braid them together.
Place the braided challah on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cover it with the kitchen towel again and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the top of the challah with the beaten egg yolk.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Allow the challah bread to cool before slicing and serving.
Enjoy your homemade classic challah bread with butter, jam, or as a delightful addition to your favorite sandwiches.
