Why You’ll Love This Challah Bread Recipe
When you take your first bite of this challah bread, you’ll instantly understand why it’s a beloved classic. The soft, slightly sweet texture melts in your mouth, making it perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re enjoying it during a holiday meal or simply savoring a slice with butter, it never disappoints. I love how this bread brings people together, creating cherished moments around the table.
Plus, the aroma wafting through the kitchen as it bakes is heavenly. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, sharing it with friends and family.
Ingredients of Challah Bread
When it comes to making challah bread, the ingredients are what really set the stage for that soft, pillowy delight we all love. Gather your supplies, and let’s jump into what you’ll need to whip up this classic bread. Each ingredient plays a role, from the flour that gives it structure to the eggs that add richness.
And trust me, there’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh bread baking in your kitchen—it’s the kind of aroma that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get to the good stuff!
Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to make your own challah bread:
- 2 cups milk or water
- 1/2 cup margarine or 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 (1 ounce) packages dry yeast
- 3 eggs
- 8 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Now, let’s talk about a few things to think about when gathering your ingredients. First off, if you’re dairy-free or just not a fan of milk, using water works just fine and still yields a tasty bread.
And if you want a richer flavor, go for the margarine instead of vegetable oil; it adds a little something special. When it comes to sugar, it’s not just for sweetness but also helps with browning the crust, so don’t skimp on that.
And don’t forget about the eggs—they contribute to the lovely golden color and are what makes challah so rich and tender. So, whether you’re making this for a holiday or just because it’s Tuesday, you’re in for a treat. Happy baking!
How to Make Challah Bread
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful world of making challah bread. It all starts with a warm embrace for our ingredients. First, take 2 cups of milk or water—whichever you prefer—and gently heat it with 1/2 cup of margarine (or 1/3 cup of vegetable oil, if that’s your jam) and 1/3 cup of sugar. You want this mixture to reach a cozy temperature of about 110 degrees. Not too hot, not too cold—like a perfect hug.
Once you’ve got that lovely warmth, sprinkle in 2 (1 ounce) packages of dry yeast and let it sit for about 10 minutes. You should see it froth up, kind of like it’s coming to life. It’s a beautiful thing.
Now, in a large bowl, pour that frothy mixture and get ready to add some serious dough-making magic. Crack in 3 eggs, then gradually mix in 8 cups of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of salt. This process can be a bit of a workout, so don’t hesitate to unleash your inner bread-making beast and knead that dough until it’s smooth and elastic.
Once you’ve conquered the dough, cover it with a towel and let it rise for an hour. This is where the magic happens; it’ll puff up like a fluffy cloud, promising deliciousness ahead.
After that first rise, it’s time to get your hands dirty again. Punch down the dough—yes, really, give it a good punch—then divide it in half. Roll each half into a 9×13 inch rectangle and cut those strips lengthwise into three pieces.
Now, it’s braiding time! Braid those strips together and place the loaves on a greased baking sheet. Let them rise again for about an hour, until they double in size. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees while you wait.
Just before they go in, brush the loaves with 1 beaten egg and sprinkle 2 teaspoons of poppy seeds on top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, and when they’re golden brown and sound hollow when tapped, congratulations—you’ve made challah! Enjoy the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, and don’t forget to save a slice for yourself.
Challah Bread Substitutions & Variations
Exploring substitutions and variations for challah bread can elevate your baking experience.
If you want a dairy-free option, swap milk for water and use vegetable oil instead of margarine. For a sweeter twist, try adding honey or maple syrup in place of sugar.
You can also experiment with different flours, like whole wheat or spelt, for a nuttier flavor. Adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla can give your challah a unique taste.
Don’t forget about toppings; sesame seeds or even a sprinkle of coarse sea salt can add an interesting crunch.
Get creative and make this classic bread your own!
Additional Tips & Notes
While baking challah, I’ve found a few tips that can really enhance the process.
First, always use fresh yeast for the best rise; it makes a noticeable difference. I like to let my dough rise in a warm, draft-free area—an oven with just the light on works great!
When braiding, don’t stress too much about perfection; it adds character. For a richer flavor, consider adding a bit of honey to the dough.
Finally, if you want that beautiful shine, brush the loaves with egg wash twice before baking. These little touches truly elevate your challah experience!