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Best Challah

Best Challah: Discover the Secrets to Perfect Braid Bread

  • Author: Chef Hicham
  • Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Discover the secrets to perfect braid bread with this best challah recipe.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm water (around 110°F)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 to 5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg (for brushing)
  • Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by combining it with warm water in a small bowl and letting it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, vegetable oil, and three eggs, setting one egg aside for later.
  3. Stir in the yeast mixture and salt.
  4. Gradually add 4 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until a dough forms. Add more flour if the mixture is sticky.
  5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  7. Deflate the dough and divide it into three equal portions.
  8. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 12-14 inches long.
  9. Braid the three ropes together and pinch the ends to secure.
  10. Place the braided loaf on a greased baking sheet, cover with a towel, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  11. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  12. Brush the braided loaf with the reserved beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
  13. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  14. Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • Ensure the water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • For a richer flavor, consider using honey instead of sugar.
  • Experiment with different toppings like seeds for added texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Jewish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Best Challah, Golden Braid Bread

Find it online: https://nannyisrecipes.com/best-challah-recipe-perfect-braid-bread/