Classic Challah Recipe
An all-time favorite & fluffy Challah~
Challah is a delicious Traditional Bread. It is eaten and blessed on the Shabbat and Holidays. Challah Bread can be bought at Kosher bakeries (Click here to order Challah online), but homemade is not comparable! In addition, it is known that making the Challah bread brings down great blessings. This recipe takes time, yet it is fairly easy to make, and is so delicious!
This recipe makes 2 medium Challahs or 1 Large Challah.
Ingredients:
1 ⅓ Cups Warm Water
1 Tablespoon Yeast
⅓ Cup plus 1 Tablespoon Sugar
⅓ Cup Oil
1 Egg plus 1 yolk for glazing
½ Teaspoon Salt
6 - 7 ½ Cups flour
Optional Toppings:
Poppy seeds
Sesame seeds
Zaatar Spice
Cinnamon & Sugar
Directions:
In a large mixing bowl dissolve warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let stand for 10 minutes to bloom.
Combine with remaining sugar, oil, egg, and salt; Stir to combine. Add half of the flour, and mix well.
Gradually add the remaining flour, and begin kneading till the flour is incorporated. Continue kneading vigorously for about 15 minutes until the dough is very smooth and elastic, adding additional flour if dough is too sticky.
Pour a little oil in your hands, and rub the dough till it is greased all over. Cover with a dish towel, and let rise in a warm place until double in bulk, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. If you have time, punch down the dough and allow to rise for a second time.
Divide dough into 3 equal parts. (If you want to make 2 smaller challahs, first divide dough in half, then divide each half into 3 equal parts.) Shape into strands. Braid and fasten ends securely. Place on oiled baking sheets, leaving plenty of room for them to expand. Allow braided loaves to rise for an additional 30 minutes. Brush with beaten egg yolk, and if desired sprinkle with toppings. Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes, until golden brown. (If making 2 smaller challahs, baking time will be about 25 minutes.) They are ready if they sound hollow when you tap the bottoms.
Blessing on the Challah Bread
Baruch atah A-donay, Elo-heinu Melech Ha’Olam Hamotzi lechem min haaretz.
Blessed are You, L-rd our G‑d, King of the Universe, Who brings forth bread from the earth.