Nadav's Delicious Challah

Golden, soft, and irresistibly fluffy, *Nadav's Delicious Challah* is the perfect centerpiece for your table, blending tradition with a touch of homemade charm. This beautifully braided bread boasts a rich, eggy dough that’s subtly sweet and delightfully tender, making it ideal for celebrations or everyday enjoyment. The recipe walks you through every step, from activating the yeast to mastering the braid, ensuring a bakery-worthy loaf at home. A glossy egg wash gives the challah its signature sheen, while optional sesame or poppy seeds add a nutty crunch. Whether served fresh, toasted, or used for French toast, this challah is a true showstopper that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for Shabbat dinners, festive holidays, or simply elevating your weekly baking routine, this recipe is a must-try for bread enthusiasts and novice bakers alike!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:180 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:210 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 4.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 0.25 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 large egg yolk (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons sesame or poppy seeds (optional)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and the active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy and activated.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of the all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and the salt.

Step 3

In a medium bowl, beat the 2 large eggs and mix in the vegetable oil.

Step 4

Add the yeast mixture and the egg mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until it starts to come together into a sticky dough.

Step 5

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, gradually adding the remaining 1/2 cup of flour as needed, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 6

Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it to coat, and cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 7

Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 3 (or more, for a more intricate braid) equal parts and roll each part into a long rope, about 16 inches in length.

Step 8

Place the ropes side by side and pinch them together at one end. Braid the ropes and pinch the other end to seal. Tuck the ends slightly underneath for a clean look.

Step 9

Transfer the braided dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover lightly with a towel. Let it rise again for 30-40 minutes, or until puffy.

Step 10

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 11

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the egg wash generously over the risen dough, ensuring all the crevices are covered. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top, if desired.

Step 12

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

Step 13

Allow the challah to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1065.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2957.0

Total Fat 78.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 14.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 33.6g
Cholesterol 556mg	0%
Sodium 4885.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 482.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 18.2g	0%
Total Sugars 64.2g
Protein 77.1g	0%

Vitamin D 100IU	0%
Calcium 286.7mg	0%
Iron 29.6mg	0%
Potassium 989.9mg	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: 24.0%

Protein: 10.5%

Carbs: 65.5%