Sugar-Free Traditional Challah

Indulge in the comforting warmth of homemade bread with this *Sugar-Free Traditional Challah*, a wholesome twist on the classic braided loaf. Made with unsweetened applesauce for natural sweetness and olive oil for richness, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a refined sugar-free option without compromising on flavor or texture. The dough is carefully kneaded and braided, then brushed with a golden egg glaze and topped with sesame or poppy seeds for a touch of tradition. Soft, slightly sweet, and beautifully golden, this challah is ideal for Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, or simply elevating your everyday meals. Whether paired with savory spreads or enjoyed on its own, this sugar-free challah is a heartwarming addition to any table.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 1 cup Warm water
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 3 large Eggs
• 0.25 cup Olive oil
• 0.25 cup Unsweetened applesauce
• 1.5 teaspoons Salt
• 4 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 large Egg (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons Sesame seeds or poppy seeds

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 of the eggs, olive oil, and unsweetened applesauce.

Step 3

Add the egg mixture to the yeast mixture, stirring to combine. Then mix in the salt.

Step 4

Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a rough dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured work surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 5

Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6

Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a clean work surface. Divide the dough into three equal portions and roll each into a rope about 12–14 inches long.

Step 7

Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends to seal. Place the braided loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 8

Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 9

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 10

Whisk the remaining egg and use it as a glaze by brushing it over the loaf. Sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds evenly across the top, if desired.

Step 11

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

Step 12

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

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1066.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2658.7

Total Fat 86.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 16.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 5.3g
Cholesterol 743mg	0%
Sodium 3838.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 380.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.7g	0%
Total Sugars 7.9g
Protein 79.6g	0%

Vitamin D 163IU	0%
Calcium 306.1mg	0%
Iron 28.5mg	0%
Potassium 1031.0mg	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: 29.8%

Protein: 12.1%

Carbs: 58.1%