Challah(Braided Egg Bread)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: Jewish

Braided challah bread offers a slightly sweet, rich flavor with a soft, fluffy texture, perfect for special occasions or everyday enjoyment with family and friends.

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Ingredients

  • 5 to 6 cups flour
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tablespoon dry yeast
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar or honey
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
  • poppy or sesame seeds (optional)
  • vegetable shortening

Instructions

  1. Measure very warm water into a large mixing bowl and add the dry yeast. Set aside for approximately 5 minutes until the yeast proofs (bubbles/foams).
  2. In a large bowl, combine 4 to 5 cups of unbleached white flour and 1 cup of whole wheat flour.
  3. Add eggs, sugar or honey, salt, and oil to the yeast mixture and mix well.
  4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  7. Punch down the dough and divide it into equal parts. Roll each part into long strands and braid them together.
  8. Place the braided dough on a greased baking sheet. Optional: brush with water and sprinkle with poppy or sesame seeds, and add raisins if desired.
  9. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  10. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  11. Bake the challah for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  12. Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

884 kcal 44% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 14.2g 28% DV
Total Fat 53.6g 69% DV
Carbs 89.9g 33% DV
Fiber 6.7g 24% DV
Sugar 17.2g 34% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 10616.2mg 100% DV
Potassium 1034.8mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 78.5mg 26% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 9.8mg 11% DV
Calcium 108.8mg 8% DV
Iron 4.1mg 23% DV

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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