Sweet Challah Bread Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of homemade Sweet Challah Bread! This recipe transforms a simple loaf into a culinary masterpiece. My love affair with challah began with a bread pudding recipe – one bite, and I was hooked! Now, I'm sharing my secret to achieving that perfectly golden, soft, and subtly sweet bread. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers unbelievably delicious results. Get ready to experience challah like never before!

Prep Time 65 mins
Cook Time 1470 mins
Calories 1599.3 kcal
Protein 69g
Rating 4.5 (20 Reviews)
Sweet Challah Bread 13

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Sweet Challah Bread

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How to Make Sweet Challah Bread

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (240ml) warm water, 2 tablespoons honey, and 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast.
  2. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
  3. Stir in 1 cup bread flour and cover the bowl with a clean towel.
  4. Let stand for 30 minutes.
  5. Stir in 1/4 cup olive oil, 1 large whole egg, and 2 large egg yolks until well combined.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. Refrigerate the dough overnight (or for at least 6 hours).
  10. Turn the dough out onto a lightly cornmeal-dusted surface. Divide the dough in half.
  11. Shape each half into a loaf or a traditional challah braid. Place in two greased loaf pans or on a baking sheet.
  12. Let the shaped dough rise for another hour while preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  13. Whisk together 1 egg with 1 tablespoon water. Brush the dough generously with the egg wash twice.
  14. Sprinkle with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or cinnamon sugar (optional).
  15. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown. If the bread browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil after 15-20 minutes.
  16. 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.
  17. Serving suggestions: grilled cheese sandwiches, baked beans, bread pudding, beef stew, olive oil with herbs and pepper, or simply with butter.
  18. 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

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