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Perfectly Fluffy Braided Challah Bread Recipe for Bread Machine

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Braided Challah Bread (Bread Machine)

Indulge in the warm, comforting delight of freshly baked Braided Challah Bread, effortlessly prepared using your bread machine. This classic recipe yields a beautifully braided loaf with a soft, pillowy texture, perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a simple spread or as part of a festive meal, this bread is sure to impress. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast 🌟
  • 2 1/2 cups bread flour 🌾
  • 1/4 cup sugar 🍭
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt 🧂
  • 7/8 cup warm water 💧 (not too hot, around 110°F or 45°C)
  • 1 large egg yolk 🥚 (for brushing)
  • 1 tablespoon water 💦 (for the egg wash)
  • Optional: sesame or poppy seeds 🌱 (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Dough: Start by adding the active dry yeast to the bread machine’s baking pan. Follow this by adding the bread flour, sugar, and salt. Pour in the warm water, ensuring it is not too hot, as this can affect the yeast. Close the lid of the bread machine and set it to the dough cycle. This cycle will mix and knead the dough, making it ready for the next step.

  2. Shape the Dough: Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough from the bread machine. Place it onto a lightly floured board to prevent sticking. Divide the dough into three equal portions. Using your hands, stretch or roll each portion into a rope about 9 inches in length.

  3. Braid the Dough: Lay the three ropes side by side on the floured board. Pinch the ends together and start braiding, weaving the ropes over and under each other to form a braid. Once braided, pinch the other ends together and tuck them under to secure the loaf.

  4. Let it Rise: Transfer the braided dough to a greased cookie sheet or baking tray. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for approximately 30 minutes. This allows the dough to expand and become airy.

  5. Prepare for Baking: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with one tablespoon of water. Brush this mixture over the top of the risen dough. If desired, sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds over the egg wash for added flavor and texture.

  6. Bake the Bread: Place the prepared loaf in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the bread turns a rich, golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. The precise baking time may vary depending on your oven.

  7. Cool: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. This helps prevent the bottom from becoming soggy and allows the bread to firm up for slicing.

Notes:

  • Bread Machine Tips: Ensure that the yeast is fresh and the water is warm but not hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast and prevent proper rising.

  • Flavor Variations: For a twist, you can add dried fruit or nuts to the dough before braiding. Simply fold them in gently after the dough has been kneaded but before braiding.

This Braided Challah Bread, with its golden crust and soft, fluffy interior, is a wonderful treat that brings a touch of homemade comfort to your kitchen. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or toasted with your favorite spread! 🌟🍞

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