Everything Challah

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup warm water
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 envelope) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup everything bagel seasoning (or poppy seed/sesame mixture)
• 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water, for egg wash (optional)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the olive oil, eggs, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F/180°C. Grease a baking sheet.
5. Punch down the dough and divide into 3 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 24 inches long. Braid the 3 ropes together and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
6. Brush the challah with the egg wash, if desired. Sprinkle with the everything bagel seasoning.
7. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before serving.

Interesting Facts

• Challah is a traditional Jewish bread that is served on the Sabbath and other holidays.
• Challah is usually braided, but can also be formed into other shapes like knots or rounds.
• Everything bagel seasoning is a blend of poppy seeds, sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and salt.