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
- In a large bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the olive oil, eggs, salt, and flour. Mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F/180°C. Grease a baking sheet.
- 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.
- Brush the challah with the egg wash, if desired. Sprinkle with the everything bagel seasoning.
- 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.
