Mirj's Ultra Rich Sweet Challah

Indulge in the luxurious sweetness of Mirj's Ultra Rich Sweet Challah, a golden loaf that’s perfect for holidays, gatherings, or any special occasion. This challah recipe elevates traditional bread-making with a rich blend of eggs, honey, and vegetable oil, creating a delectably soft and tender crumb. The delicate braiding process, followed by a coating of glistening egg wash and optional sesame or poppy seeds, gives the loaf its signature beauty and irresistible aroma. With just 30 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease. Serve it warm with butter, use it for French toast, or enjoy it on its own for a truly comforting treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this sweet challah promises to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 0.25 cup granulated sugar
• 4.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 egg yolk
• 0.5 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional for topping)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of the sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the remaining sugar, flour, and salt.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, vegetable oil, and honey.

Step 4

Pour the wet ingredients and the frothy yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

Step 5

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, adding small amounts of flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 6

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 7

Punch down the dough and divide it into three or four equal pieces. Roll each piece into long ropes and braid them together, tucking the ends underneath.

Step 8

Transfer the braided dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise again for 30-45 minutes.

Step 9

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 10

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash. Brush the challah with the egg wash, making sure to coat all the crevices.

Step 11

Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top, if desired.

Step 12

Bake the challah in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.

Step 13

Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1285g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3638.7

Total Fat 142.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 25.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 67.2g
Cholesterol 1114.5mg	0%
Sodium 2725.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 506.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.8g	0%
Total Sugars 86.7g
Protein 92.7g	0%

Vitamin D 219.2IU	0%
Calcium 298.0mg	0%
Iron 31.8mg	0%
Potassium 1133.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.9%

Protein: 10.1%

Carbs: 55.1%