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    Public Recipe

    Classic Challah Recipe

    Shared on 8/31/2025

    This traditional braided Jewish bread is enriched with eggs and honey, resulting in a tender, slightly sweet loaf perfect for Shabbat or any special occasion.
    Classic Challah Recipe
    Prep Time
    30 minutes
    Bake Time
    35 minutes
    Difficulty
    Intermediate
    Yield
    1 large loaf
    Enriched Bread

    Ingredients

    • 500g (4 cups) Bread flour
    • 4 large (4) Eggs plus 1 for wash
    • 80g (¼ cup) Honey
    • 120ml (½ cup) Warm water
    • 80ml (⅓ cup) Vegetable oil
    • 7g (2¼ tsp) Instant yeast
    • 10g (1½ tsp) Salt
    • 2 tbsp (2 tbsp) Sesame or poppy seeds optional

    Instructions

    1

    Combine warm water, honey, and yeast. Let stand 5 minutes.

    2

    Add eggs and oil to yeast mixture.

    3

    Add flour and salt, knead 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

    4

    Cover and let rise 1½-2 hours until doubled.

    5

    Divide into 3 or 6 strands, braid, place on parchment-lined sheet.

    6

    Cover and let rise 45 minutes until puffy.

    7

    Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with seeds if using.

    8

    Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until deep golden.

    Equipment

    • stand mixer
    • baking sheet
    • pastry brush

    Tips

    • •Room temperature eggs incorporate better
    • •Don't over-proof or braid will lose definition
    • •For extra shine, do two egg washes

    Troubleshooting

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