Ingredients for Sweet Challah Bread
- Warm Water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Active Dry Yeast
- 3-3 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Egg
- 2 large egg yolks
- Kosher Salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water
- Poppy seeds (optional)
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How to Make Sweet Challah Bread
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (240ml) warm water, 2 tablespoons honey, and 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast.
- Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Stir in 1 cup bread flour and cover the bowl with a clean towel.
- Let stand for 30 minutes.
- Stir in 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 large whole egg, and 2 large egg yolks until well combined.
- Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 3-3 1/2 cups bread flour, adding flour gradually until a soft, sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, adding more flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a large, greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Refrigerate the dough overnight (or for at least 6 hours).
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly cornmeal-dusted surface. Divide the dough in half.
- Shape each half into a loaf or a traditional challah braid. Place in two greased loaf pans or on a baking sheet.
- Let the shaped dough rise for another hour while preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Whisk together 1 egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush the dough generously with the egg wash twice.
- Sprinkle with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or cinnamon sugar (optional).
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown. If the bread browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil after 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack for a crisp crust, or place in a plastic bag for a softer crust.
- Serving suggestions: grilled cheese sandwiches, baked beans, bread pudding, beef stew, olive oil with herbs and pepper, or simply with butter.
- For cheesy challah, sprinkle with your favorite cheese during the last 2 minutes of baking.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
58 g
Sugar
409g
Fat
42g
Carbs
90g