18 Jewish Challah Bread Recipe Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 31, 2024
Challah bread is a traditional, braided bread that is an important part of Jewish cuisine and culture. Not only is it delicious, but it also holds significant meaning in Jewish religious ceremonies and holidays. In this article, we will delve into the history of challah bread and provide a step-by-step recipe for you to make your own delicious challah bread at home.
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Active Yeast, Salt, Sugar, Water
If you're a fan of homemade bread, then you've probably heard of challah bread. This traditional Jewish bread is known for its soft and fluffy texture, golden crust, and sweet taste. It's often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays, such as Shabbat and Rosh Hashanah. But did you know that there are many variations of challah bread? In this article, we'll be exploring the top 16 beer can chicken recipes that you can try at home, including Jewish challah bread, vegan challah bread, and more.
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Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Flour, Instant Yeast, Sugar, Salt, Large Eggs, Unsalted
Let's start with the classic challah bread recipe. This version uses traditional ingredients like flour, yeast, sugar, and eggs to create a soft and slightly sweet loaf. The dough is braided and then brushed with an egg wash before baking, giving it a beautiful shiny finish. Serve this bread warm with a spread of butter for a delicious treat.
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Jackie’s Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Instant Yeast, Lukewarm Water, Sugar
If you're looking for a unique twist on traditional challah bread, then try Jackie's recipe. This version uses brown sugar instead of white sugar, giving the bread a deeper and richer flavor. It also includes optional add-ins like raisins and cinnamon for a touch of sweetness and spice. Pair this bread with a cup of coffee or tea for a tasty breakfast or snack.
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The Best Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Water, Bread Flour, Large Egg, Vegetable Oil, Rapid
As the name suggests, this recipe claims to be the best challah bread ever. And with ingredients like honey, olive oil, and almond extract, it's hard to argue. This version also uses a combination of all-purpose and bread flour for a perfectly soft and chewy texture. Don't be intimidated by the braiding, as the instructions are easy to follow and will result in a beautiful and delicious loaf.
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Braided Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Honey, Water, Salt, Bread Flour
In this recipe, the focus is on the braiding technique. The dough is made with simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and salt, and then divided into six equal portions. The portions are then braided together, creating a beautiful and intricate design. This bread is great for impressing guests or for a special occasion.
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Famous Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Challah, All Purpose Flour, All Purpose Flour, Dry
This challah bread recipe claims to be famous, and for good reason. It's a no-fail recipe that produces a soft and fluffy loaf every time. The dough is made with milk and butter, giving it a rich and buttery taste. The addition of vanilla extract also adds a subtle sweetness. This bread is great for sandwiches or as a side to a hearty stew or soup.
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Challah Bread Pudding
Main Ingredients: Challah Bread, Eggs, Sugar, Light Brown Sugar
Looking for a unique way to use up leftover challah bread? Try making challah bread pudding. This recipe combines the classic flavors of challah bread with a creamy and custardy pudding. The bread is soaked in a mixture of milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract, and then baked until golden and crispy. Serve this dessert warm with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat.
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Best Ever Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Lukewarm Water, Active Dry Yeast, Eggs, Vegetable Oil
Another contender for the best challah bread recipe, this version features a slightly different technique. Instead of braiding the dough, it is rolled out into a rectangle and then rolled up like a jelly roll. This results in a spiral design when baked, giving the bread a unique look. The dough is also flavored with orange zest and honey, adding a subtle citrus and sweetness to the bread.
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Simple Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Warm Water, Sugar, Olive Oil, Eggs
If you're new to making bread, then this simple challah bread recipe is perfect for you. It uses fewer ingredients and a shorter rising time, making it a great option for beginners. The dough is also shaped into a round loaf instead of the traditional braided shape, making it a great option for sandwiches or toast.
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How to Make Easy Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Bread Flour, Fast Action Yeast, Fine Salt, Liquid
Similar to the previous recipe, this version also uses a simpler and quicker method for making challah bread. The dough is shaped into a long braid, and then topped with sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. The result is a beautiful and delicious loaf that is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
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Gluten Free Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Gluten Free Bread Flour Blend, Psyllium Husk Powder
For those who are gluten-free, this challah bread recipe is a must-try. It uses a combination of gluten-free flours like almond flour and potato starch to create a soft and fluffy loaf. The dough is also flavored with honey and apple cider vinegar for a touch of sweetness and tang. This bread is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional challah bread.
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How To Make Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Lukewarm Water, Instant Yeast, All Purpose Flour
If you're new to making challah bread, then this recipe is a great place to start. It includes step-by-step instructions with photos, making the process easy to follow. The dough is made with instant yeast for a quicker rising time and honey for a touch of sweetness. The result is a soft and delicious loaf that is perfect for any occasion.
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SCD Challah bread
Main Ingredients: Almond Flour, Coconut Flour, Baking Soda, Salt, Extra
Those following the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD) can still enjoy challah bread with this recipe. It uses SCD-approved ingredients like almond flour, honey, and eggs to create a delicious and gluten-free loaf. The dough is also flavored with vanilla extract and cinnamon for added flavor. This bread is perfect for those with dietary restrictions or for anyone looking for a healthier option.
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Challah Bread | Eggless Braided Challah
Main Ingredients: Lukewarm Water, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Canola Oil
If you're looking for an eggless version of challah bread, then this recipe is for you. It uses a combination of flaxseed meal and water as an egg substitute, resulting in a soft and delicious loaf. The dough is also flavored with honey and vanilla extract for a touch of sweetness. Serve this bread warm with your favorite spread for a tasty treat.
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Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Warm Water, Egg, All Purpose Flour
This traditional challah bread recipe is another great option for beginners. It uses simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and yeast to create a soft and slightly sweet loaf. The dough is braided and then topped with an egg wash and poppy seeds for added flavor and texture. Enjoy this bread on its own or use it to make delicious sandwiches.
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Classic Challah Bread
Main Ingredients: Lukewarm Water, Vegetable Oil, Honey, Large Eggs
Last but not least, we have the classic challah bread recipe. This version uses traditional ingredients and techniques to create a soft and delicious loaf. The dough is braided and then brushed with an egg wash for a beautiful and shiny finish. This bread is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your friends and family.
The Significance of Challah Bread in Jewish Culture
The Origin of Challah Bread
Challah bread has been a staple in Jewish cuisine for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the biblical period, where it was known as "lechem hapanim," meaning "bread of the presence." In ancient times, it was customary for Jews to offer a portion of their dough to the priests as a symbol of gratitude to God. This practice of separating a portion of the dough, known as "hafrashat challah," is still observed by many Jewish families today.
Symbolism in Challah Bread
The braided shape of challah bread is said to represent unity and togetherness in the Jewish community. The three strands of the braid are also said to symbolize the three pillars of the Jewish faith - the Torah, the Law, and the Israelites. The round shape of the challah bread is often associated with the cycle of life and the continuous nature of the Jewish faith.
Challah Bread in Religious Ceremonies and Holidays
Challah bread plays a significant role in Jewish religious ceremonies and holidays. It is traditionally served on Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest, and is also a staple at special occasions such as weddings and bar/bat mitzvahs. During the holiday of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, challah bread is often baked in a circular shape to symbolize the cyclical nature of the year.
How to Make Your Own Challah Bread
Now that we've explored the significance of challah bread in Jewish culture, let's move on to the recipe. Here, we will provide a step-by-step guide to making your own delicious challah bread at home.
Ingredients:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 packet active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water
2 large eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
1 egg for egg wash
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and yeast. Make a well in the center and pour in the warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is activated.
Add in the eggs, vegetable oil, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
After the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 3 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a long rope and braid them together.
Place the braided dough on a greased baking sheet and cover with a towel. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Before baking, brush the dough with the beaten egg for a shiny finish.
Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool before slicing and serving.
With this easy recipe, you can now make your own delicious challah bread at home and experience the rich tradition and symbolism behind this beloved Jewish bread. Enjoy it on its own or use it to make delicious French toast or bread pudding. Happy baking!
