The Oil-Free Challah recipe provided offers a healthier twist on the traditional challah bread, tailored for those looking to reduce oil intake without compromising on flavor and texture. Challah, a Jewish ceremonial bread typically rich in eggs and sometimes oil, is here adapted to exclude oil entirely, making it suitable for those preferring a lighter option.
Recipe Overview:
- Name: Oil-Free Challah
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
- Recipe Category: Yeast Breads
- Keywords: Breads, European, Healthy, Weeknight, Bread Machine, Small Appliance, < 4 Hours
- Servings: 10
- Yield: 2 loaves
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 egg
- 3/4 cup applesauce
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tbsp honey
- 1 1/2 tbsp sugar
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
Nutritional Information per Serving (1 slice, assuming 10 slices per loaf):
- Calories: 140.6
- Total Fat: 0.8g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 21.1mg
- Sodium: 183.1mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28.8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4.6g
- Protein: 4.1g
Instructions:
-
Prepare Dough in Bread Machine:
- Place ingredients in the bread maker in the order recommended by the manufacturer (typically wet ingredients and salt first, followed by dry ingredients including yeast).
- Run the dough cycle on the bread machine to knead and proof the dough.
-
Shape and Proof the Dough:
- Grease and flour a round cake pan.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and lightly flour your hands.
- Divide the dough into balls, shaping each into rounds, and place them evenly in the prepared pan.
- Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, which usually takes about an hour.
-
Preheat and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If desired, brush the surface of the bread with an egg wash (a beaten egg with a little water) before baking to achieve a glossy finish.
- Bake the challah for approximately 25 minutes or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
-
Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, transfer the challah to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Enjoy slices of this oil-free challah on its own, with spreads, or as part of a meal.
Additional Tips:
- For a richer flavor, consider adding toppings like sesame seeds or poppy seeds before baking.
- This recipe can be doubled if your bread machine and pan size allow, making it convenient for larger gatherings or freezing extra loaves for later.
By following these straightforward steps, you can create a delicious, healthier version of challah bread that retains its traditional appeal while accommodating dietary preferences that minimize oil consumption.
