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Challah Bread with Clear Six Strand Braiding

  • Author: mila-hartwell
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A traditional bread recipe featuring a beautiful six-strand braid, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups bread flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup butter (or oil for vegan)
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: Start by combining warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour and salt.
  3. Combine wet & dry: Create a well in the center of your dry ingredients and add the yeast mixture, followed by the eggs and melted butter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  5. First rise: Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1-2 hours.
  6. Shape into strands: Punch down the risen dough, divide it into six equal portions. Roll them into long strands, each about 1-inch thick.
  7. Braid the dough: Once all strands are rolled, start braiding them by placing the strands side by side. Cross the outer strands over the center, repeating until complete. Pinch the ends to seal.
  8. Second rise: Move the braided loaf to a greased baking sheet and cover it again. Let it rise for about 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  9. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  10. Egg wash: Brush the top of the braid with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.
  11. Bake: Bake your challah for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
  12. Cool and serve: Allow it to cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

Use high-quality ingredients for the best results. Allow the bread to cool before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Jewish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Challah, Bread, Braided Bread, Jewish Recipe, Baking, Breadmaking

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Find it online: https://tastycomforttable.com/challah-bread-recipe-six-strand-braiding/