Famous Challah Recipe: A Family Tradition
The enchanting aroma of freshly baked Challah wafting through the kitchen is a beloved ritual in many homes, and this Famous Challah recipe, adapted from “The Spice & Spirit of Kosher-Jewish Cooking,” has become a cherished family favorite. Each bite transports you to a world of warm memories, evoking the warmth of family gatherings and festive celebrations. Once you taste this homemade version, you may find yourself shunning store-bought alternatives as your loved ones will inevitably request you to bring your Challahs whenever there’s a holiday meal. While the preparation may seem lengthy, rest assured that much of that time is inactive, allowing you to engage in other delightful activities while your dough rises. With a mere 30 to 40 minutes of active work, the result is an exquisite, braided bread that is simply worth the wait!
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Name | Famous Challah |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Prep Time | 3 hours |
| Total Time | 3 hours 35 minutes |
| Description | A delightful homemade Challah that’s become a family favorite, perfect for holiday gatherings. |
| Category | Yeast Breads |
| Servings | 2 Challahs |
| Rating | 5 (based on 137 reviews) |
| Calories | 2362.3 |
Ingredients
To create this delightful Challah, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 ½ cups |
| Dry yeast | 2 teaspoons |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Sugar | ½ cup + 1 tablespoon (for the yeast) |
| Warm water | 1 cup |
| Oil (vegetable or canola) | 1 tablespoon |
| Egg (for glaze) | 1 large (beaten) |
| Poppy seeds (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame seeds (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Calories | 2362.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 64.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 186 mg |
| Sodium | 3579.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 387.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.7 g |
| Sugars | 51.3 g |
| Protein | 54.3 g |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing Your Ingredients
To embark on this Challah-making adventure, start by meticulously measuring out all your ingredients. Ensuring accuracy will contribute to the perfect texture and flavor of your bread.
Step 2: Activating the Yeast
From the measured sugar, scoop out 1 tablespoon and combine it with the dry yeast and warm water in a small bowl. The ideal temperature for the warm water is around the same temperature as the inside of your wrist—just warm enough to activate the yeast without cooking it. Allow this mixture to sit for about 10 minutes, during which time the yeast will dissolve and foam, indicating it’s alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 3: Mixing the Dough
While the yeast is activating, you can prepare your mixing bowl. For optimal results, place your metal mixing bowl (if using a KitchenAid) in a warm water bath. Once the yeast has become foamy, add the remaining sugar, salt, and 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour into the bowl. Using a dough hook or a sturdy wooden spoon, mix until combined.
Step 4: Incorporating the Remaining Ingredients
Next, pour in the beaten egg and the vegetable oil into the flour mixture. Gradually incorporate the remaining flour, mixing until the dough becomes thick and cohesive.
Step 5: Kneading the Dough
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for approximately 10 minutes, adding only enough additional flour to make it manageable. The dough should be smooth and elastic, springing back when lightly pressed with your fingertip. This kneading process is crucial as it develops the gluten, resulting in a beautiful structure for your Challah.
Step 6: First Rise
Once your dough is kneaded to perfection, place it in a large, lightly oiled bowl, turning it so that it is coated in oil on all sides. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 2 hours. During this time, gently punch down the dough in 4 to 5 places every 20 minutes to help it rise evenly. As you work, jot down the start time and set a timer, ensuring you keep track of the rising process. In warmer months, consider letting the dough rise on a balcony, while in cooler seasons, placing it near an oven can be beneficial.
Step 7: Shaping the Challah
After the dough has doubled in size, turn it out onto your working surface and prepare for the fun part—shaping! Start by dividing the dough in half with a large knife. Take one half and cut off a third, setting it aside. Now, from the remaining two-thirds, divide this portion into approximately equal thirds. Roll each third into strands about 10-12 inches long, then braid them together, pinching the top and bottom together and tucking them slightly under.
Step 8: Preparing for Baking
Repeat the braiding process for the other half of the dough. Take the third you set aside earlier and divide it into three parts, braiding it just like before and placing it atop the already braided loaf. Do the same for the remaining third, creating a lovely two-level braided Challah that is visually stunning and delicious.
Step 9: Second Rise
Now that your Challahs are beautifully shaped, let them rise for an additional 30 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
Step 10: Glazing and Topping
After the second rise is complete, brush the top of each loaf with the beaten egg for a lovely golden finish. If desired, sprinkle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds, which add a delightful crunch and a touch of tradition.
Step 11: Baking
Carefully transfer your loaves onto the prepared baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for exactly 25 minutes, ensuring the bread is golden brown and has developed a crust. Once the time is up, turn off the oven but leave the Challahs inside for an additional 10 minutes. This residual heat will ensure a perfect texture.
Step 12: Cooling and Enjoying
After the final baking time has elapsed, carefully remove the Challahs from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Once they have cooled enough to handle, slice, serve, and enjoy! These delicious homemade Challahs are perfect for family meals, Shabbat dinners, or any occasion that calls for a touch of love and tradition.
Conclusion
Baking your own Challah is not just a culinary endeavor; it is a heartfelt tradition that brings family and friends together around the table. As you relish the delightful flavors and textures of this Famous Challah, you may find yourself creating new memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy every bite, and revel in the compliments that are sure to follow!
