Challah Bread

Name: Challah Bread
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 14 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast; 1/3 cup sugar; 2 eggs, plus 1 for egg wash; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 4 cups bread flour; 1 1/2 tsp salt

14 servings45 min prep30 min cookMedium

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The Story Behind It

The Tale of Challah Bread

Story updated September 18, 2026

Challah is a braided egg bread central to Jewish Sabbath and holiday traditions, with roots in the ancient practice of setting aside a portion of dough as an offering. The braided form developed later, likely influenced by European braided bread traditions.

Ingredients

Scale:· 14 servings

1 cup warm water
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
1/3 cup sugar
2 eggs, plus 1 for egg wash
1/3 cup vegetable oil
4 cups bread flour
1 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1Stir yeast and sugar into warm water; let sit until foamy.
2Whisk in 2 eggs and oil.
3Stir in flour and salt, then knead 8-10 minutes until smooth.
4Let rise 1 hour, until doubled.
5Divide into 3 ropes and braid, then place on a baking sheet and let rise 45 minutes.
6Brush with beaten egg and bake at 375°F for 28-30 minutes, until deep golden.

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