Golden Spiral Challah: A Masterpiece of Flavor and Craftsmanship

Spiral Challah Recipe

🕒 Total Time: 1 hour and 35 minutes
🥖 Yield: 2 spiral challahs

Description:

Indulge in the intricate flavors and textures of this Spiral Challah recipe, a delightful creation from The New Jewish Holiday Cookbook. With detailed instructions to guide you every step of the way, this recipe ensures a successful outcome. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the instructions before you begin, and embark on a journey of culinary excellence!

Ingredients:

• 6 1/2 – 7 1/2 cups white bread flour
• 2 cups gluten flour
• 1/3 cup bread machine quick-acting active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon anise seed
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 4 eggs
• 1/4 cup egg substitute
• 1/4 cup canola oil
• 1/3 cup light olive oil
• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup canola oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 1/2 cups tap water
• 1/2 – 1 cup light raisins
• 1/2 – 1 cup dark raisins

Instructions:

Mixer Method:

1. In the large bowl of an electric mixer with a dough-kneading hook, combine 5 cups of bread flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and seeds.
2. Stir the dry ingredients using the hook, then add 3 eggs (or egg substitute), oil, and honey, and mix lightly.
3. Gradually add hot water and stir until combined.
4. Attach the dough hook and knead on medium speed, adjusting flour if necessary, until the dough is smooth.
5. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest for 20 minutes.

Hand Method:

1. In a large bowl, mix 4 cups of bread flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add 3 eggs (or egg substitute), oil, and honey, and stir lightly.
3. Gradually add hot water and stir until well combined.
4. Stir in additional flour to form a soft, sticky dough.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes until smooth.
6. Cover and let the dough rest for 20 minutes.

Both Methods:

1. Prepare baking sheets by greasing them or lining with parchment paper.
2. Turn the dough onto a floured surface, divide in half, and shape each half into a spiral loaf.
3. For a spiral shape, roll each portion into a long snake, flatten, and add raisins if desired.
4. Roll the dough into a tight log, enclosing the raisins.
5. Shape the log into a spiral, tucking the ends underneath.
6. Place each loaf on a prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush loaves with egg glaze.
8. Let the loaves rise until almost double in size.
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
10. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
11. Cool completely on wire racks.

Enjoy!

Serve this beautifully braided Spiral Challah as a centerpiece for your holiday table or enjoy it as a special treat any day of the week. With its soft texture and delightful flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.