Challah(Communion Bread)
A soft, fluffy challah bread with a slightly sweet flavor, perfect for special occasions or Sabbath, enjoyed by all ages and versatile for various toppings and spreads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar in 1/2 cup warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Combine oil, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 eggs, and 2 teaspoons salt in a large mixing bowl. Beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until blended.
- Add yeast mixture and 2 cups of flour; beat until smooth.
- Gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft, sticky dough.
- Cover dough and let rest for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve a richer flavor, consider adding an egg wash before baking for a beautiful golden crust. If you don't have vegetable oil, canola or melted coconut oil are good alternatives. For a sweeter version, mix in some honey or use brown sugar instead of white. Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
Serving Suggestions
Challah is perfect for serving alongside soups or salads, and it makes an excellent base for French toast. Try it with a spread of honey or butter for breakfast, or pair it with a hearty stew for dinner. It also pairs beautifully with My Best Friend - Braided Bread for a delightful bread basket.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover challah in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Challah(Communion Bread) contains roughly 1019 calories, with 14g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (96% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2754mg per serving (120% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this challah recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and baking. This method enhances the flavor and texture of the bread.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If the dough is overly sticky during mixing, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. However, avoid adding too much flour to prevent a dense bread.
How can I tell when the challah is done baking?
The challah is done when it has a golden-brown crust and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. An internal temperature of about 190°F will ensure it's fully baked. Let it cool before slicing.
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).