This homemade challah bread recipe is a delicious twist on the traditional Jewish bread. With a soft, fluffy texture and a slightly sweet taste, this bread is perfect for your Shabbat dinner or any special occasion. The braided design adds an extra touch of elegance to this already delightful bread.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 packet dry active yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 egg yolk for egg wash
Directions
- In a small bowl, mix the yeast with warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix well.
- Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
- Cover the dough with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 3 equal parts. Roll each part into a long rope.
- Braid the 3 ropes together and tuck the ends under to form a loaf.
- Place the loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Brush the loaf with egg wash and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let the challah cool before slicing and serving.
