24 Challah Recipes To Loaf Around And Savor

Join me on a culinary adventure as we explore the rich world of challah recipes! This iconic bread, with its inviting golden crust and velvety soft interior, has been at the heart of Jewish cuisine for centuries. More than just a delicious treat, challah is a symbol of tradition, community, and celebration – bringing people together around the dinner table.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting to get your hands dirty in the kitchen, I’ve curated a selection of incredible challah recipes that will take your baking skills to new heights. So, don your apron, fire up your oven, and let’s embark on this tasty journey together!

Simple Challah Bread

Crafting simple yet impressive challah bread requires minimal effort and yields exceptional results. This recipe’s foundation lies in a harmonious blend of yeast, warm water, oil, sugar, salt, and eggs, gradually combined with flour to achieve the perfect texture. As the dough rises, either at room temperature or in the fridge overnight, it absorbs an array of complex flavors that unfold when baked.

After allowing the mixture to relax, dividing it into manageable pieces, and carefully braiding each strand, the loaves are given a chance to rise once more before being finished with an egg wash and finally, baking until golden brown. The outcome is a delectable challah bread boasting a tender interior and a robust crust, perfect for satisfying weekend or holiday cravings.

Challah

This indulgent challah recipe produces the most divine loaves that are perfect for satisfying your snack cravings, building the ultimate sandwich, or making a decadent French toast. With a combination of warm water, active dry yeast, sugar, bread flour, egg yolks, oil, honey, salt, and optional sweet raisins, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

The dough requires some elbow grease as it’s kneaded until it achieves the windowpane test, then left to rise for three hours before being carefully divided, shaped, and braided into its signature form. Finally, a golden-brown finish is achieved through baking. Additionally, this comprehensive recipe includes valuable insights on substituting ingredients and storing your freshly baked challah, ensuring you can enjoy it for days to come.

With such impressive results, it’s no wonder this recipe has earned its reputation as a must-try for anyone seeking a soft, delicious, and utterly irresistible challah experience.

Vegan Challah

Katharina Arrigoni’s Vegan Challah recipe transforms the traditional challah bread into a fully plant-based delight. By blending all-purpose flour, spelt flour, yeast, and other essential ingredients, this recipe yields a soft and velvety dough that can be expertly braided in various styles. Prior to baking, the dough is gently brushed with maple syrup, imparting a subtle sweetness that’s further enhanced by an additional brushing after baking.

As a result, this vegan challah recipe presents a scrumptious, plant-based alternative for those seeking to reinvigorate the classic bread with a compassionate twist.

Bread Machine Challah

With its soft and fluffy texture, slightly sweet flavor, and convenient preparation process, Bread Machine Challah is the perfect recipe for anyone seeking to enjoy traditional Jewish Sabbath bread without the hassle of traditional yeast-based methods. The addition of eggs and honey provides a subtle sweetness, while the bread machine simplifies the process, allowing even the most novice bakers to produce high-quality loaves with minimal effort.

The recipe also offers creative freedom, as it suggests various toppings and serving ideas for customization and versatility. As a result, Bread Machine Challah is an essential recipe for challah enthusiasts seeking a stress-free baking experience that still yields delicious results.

Honey Walnut Challah

The Honey Walnut Challah offers a sweet and satisfying twist on traditional Jewish bread. The soft, fluffy dough is enriched with honey’s subtle sweetness, balanced by the satisfying crunch of walnuts. This beginner-friendly recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields a visually stunning loaf. The addition of honey and walnuts elevates the challah to new heights, creating a deliciously flavorful and aromatic bread perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to try something new, this Honey Walnut Challah is a must-try for bread enthusiasts.

Bread-Machine Challah

A dairy-free take on the classic Jewish bread, Bread-Machine Challah is a golden-hued, eggy, and tender yeast bread with a hint of sweetness. This recipe is designed to be effortless, requiring only a bread machine, basic ingredients like eggs, honey, salt, vegetable oil, bread flour, and yeast, and a dash of simplicity. After mixing and kneading the dough in the bread machine, the Challah is shaped into a beautiful braid and finished off with a gentle bake in the oven.

The end result is a delectable loaf that’s perfect for any occasion or celebration.

Challah Bread

Challah bread, a quintessential Jewish braided bread, effortlessly weaves together simplicity and sophistication. The soft, slightly sweet, egg-infused aroma invites you to take a bite, only to discover the dough’s forgiving nature, allowing for imperfections in the braiding process. Despite these minor flaws, the final product is nothing short of stunning. Temperature fluctuations may impact rising time, but a full rise remains crucial.

Upon baking, a hollow sound upon tapping the bottom confirms the bread’s doneness. While ideally consumed fresh from the oven, challah bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days, preserving its flavor and texture. For bread enthusiasts seeking to elevate their baking repertoire, challah bread is an absolute must-try recipe.

Whole Wheat Challah

Whole Wheat Challah offers a nutritious spin on traditional challah bread, combining the nutty flavor of whole wheat flour with the tenderness of all-purpose flour. The result is a deliciously wholesome loaf that’s easy to make and perfect for those seeking a healthier alternative. The braided presentation adds an elegant touch to any table setting, making it a great addition to any gathering. With its cultural significance in Jewish tradition, challah holds a special place in many hearts.

This recipe allows for experimentation with different high-protein whole grain flours like spelt or einkorn, adding variety to the classic flavor. Overall, Whole Wheat Challah is a satisfying and easy-to-make bread that’s sure to become a staple in your household.

Pretzel Challah

Pretzel Challah is a game-changing twist on traditional challah bread that combines the best of both worlds. The fluffy egg dough and intricate braided shape evoke the softness and charm of a freshly baked pretzel, while the unique flavor profile, courtesy of baking soda and dark brown sugar, sets it apart from its classic counterpart. What’s more, this recipe is kosher and pareve-friendly, making it accessible to those with dietary restrictions.

For an added layer of richness, melted butter can be incorporated – though it’s entirely optional. The egg wash adds a satisfying sheen to the finished loaf, further elevating Pretzel Challah’s allure. In short, this delightful variation on the classic challah recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a culinary adventure.

Gluten-Free Challah

For individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, Gluten-Free Challah offers a delectable alternative to traditional wheat flour bread. This recipe yields a moist, fluffy, and doughy bread that closely mimics the texture of its wheat-based counterpart. The substitution of gluten-free oat flour enables it to qualify as hamotzi-worthy, while the addition of honey provides a delightful touch of sweetness.

To add a savory dimension, this gluten-free challah is topped with Everything Bagel seasoning. Although it may not possess the same visual appeal as hand-braided wheat-flour challah, its beautiful shape still makes an impression. In conclusion, this Gluten-Free Challah recipe is a worthy option for those seeking a gluten-free and kosher choice for their Shabbat table.

Sourdough Challah

By eschewing commercial yeast in favor of naturally leavened sourdough starter cultures, the Sourdough Challah recipe presents a captivating reimagining of traditional challah bread. The ensuing longer fermentation period imbues the loaf with a subtle tanginess, harmoniously coexisting with its signature soft and airy texture. Despite the two-day process, the required hands-on effort is surprisingly minimal, rendering it an appealingly low-maintenance yet richly rewarding bread option.

Vegan Challah Bread

A game-changer for bread enthusiasts, vegan challah bread offers an effortless alternative to its traditional counterpart. This egg-free delight remains surprisingly soft and fluffy, boasting rich flavors without the need for elaborate ingredients or machinery. The versatility of this recipe shines through, allowing you to shape it into a classic braid or any creative form that suits your taste.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking to branch out or a beginner seeking a stress-free bread-making experience, this vegan challah bread is an excellent choice. Its accessibility and impressive results make it a must-try for anyone with dietary restrictions or those eager to explore new flavors.

Sweet Potato Challah

Innovating on the classic challah bread recipe, the Sweet Potato Challah brings forth an unparalleled culinary experience. By incorporating mashed sweet potatoes and invigorating fresh ginger, this bread boasts a distinctively rich flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds. The dough yields a supple and resilient texture, rendering a light and airy consistency that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is delightful to behold.

Whether savored solo or used as the foundation for French toast, this Sweet Potato Challah is an absolute must-try for those seeking to elevate their challah experience.

Sourdough Challah Bread

Indulge in the delightful fusion of traditional Jewish bread with the tangy essence of sourdough fermentation. This revised take on Challah Bread boasts an airy, soft texture and a golden-hued crust that’s almost too beautiful to eat. And yet, it’s precisely this aesthetic appeal that makes it perfect for any celebration or everyday indulgence. By substituting dairy products with oil and water, this recipe is not only a culinary masterpiece but also a kosher delight.

The result is a bread that’s as delightful to the palate as it is to the eye, with its subtle nuances of flavor and an airy lightness that’s hard to resist. Whether savored on its own or used as the foundation for creative dishes, this Sourdough Challah Bread is an absolute must-try.

Jazzie’s Gluten Free Molino Flour Challah

Jazzie’s Gluten-Free Molino Flour Challah is a game-changer for individuals living with dietary restrictions. This vegan and Celiac-friendly recipe utilizes gluten-free Molino flour, sweetened with the natural goodness of date syrup. The result is a foolproof formula that has garnered widespread acclaim from the gluten-free community.

By incorporating adaptations for vegans and offering suggestions for delectable toppings, this challah recipe provides an inclusive experience that rivals traditional Challah in terms of flavor and texture. Moreover, it ensures that Shabbat meals can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their dietary needs.

Bakery Style Challah

For enthusiasts of traditional Challah bread, the Bakery Style Challah recipe is a must-have. By following its precise guidelines and expert tips, you’ll be rewarded with a light and airy loaf that rivals what’s found in professional bakeries. The inclusion of egg yolks brings depth and richness to the flavor profile, making it an absolute delight. While some users may have encountered slightly denser results, this recipe offers the flexibility to adjust as needed.

Ultimately, it’s a transformative experience for anyone seeking an authentic, bakery-quality Challah.

Gluten Free Challah

A game-changer for those with dietary restrictions, Gluten-Free Challah is a masterpiece of texture and appearance that rivals its traditional counterpart. This delectable loaf boasts a tender crumb and a soft, fluffy consistency, making it perfect for braiding and serving at gatherings or special occasions. To achieve this unparalleled level of quality, the recipe relies on a carefully selected gluten-free flour blend.

For added flavor and visual appeal, the bread can be topped with an assortment of ingredients, including poppy seeds and sesame seeds. And the best part? Gluten-Free Challah remains fresh for a longer period when stored in an airtight container or frozen for future indulgence.

Garlic Rosemary Challah

This innovative Garlic Rosemary Challah recipe takes the classic version to new heights by incorporating the pungent, aromatic flavors of roasted garlic powder and fragrant rosemary. The result is a visually stunning and mouthwatering bread that’s sure to impress. To take it to the next level, thinly sliced garlic and sprigs of fresh rosemary are used as garnishes, adding an extra layer of appeal. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who craves savory flavors in their challah.

Round Challah

Indulge in the sweet and symbolic tradition of baking Round Challah for Rosh Hashanah with this mouthwatering recipe. The resulting loaf is a masterpiece of rich, eggy goodness, ideal for toast, sandwiches, French toast, or bread pudding. With its versatility, you can create an impressive braided design or keep it simple with a spiral shape – either way, your guests are sure to be wowed. An optional addition of raisins adds a burst of flavor to this already irresistible loaf.

Once baked and beautifully displayed on a serving board, the challah is set to take center stage at any Rosh Hashanah celebration, regardless of whether you’re an experienced bread baker or just starting out.

Pumpkin Challah

A fall twist on traditional challah bread, the Pumpkin Challah offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. By incorporating pumpkin puree into the dough, this bread becomes even more tender and sweet, with a subtle hint of autumnal spice from warm additions like cinnamon. The final product is a beautifully braided loaf that’s as soft and inviting as it is visually appealing.

Whether you’re serving it alongside a meal or using it to make a decadent French toast, the Pumpkin Challah is sure to impress with its rich flavors and impressive presentation.

Maple Glazed Challah Rolls

Indulge in the sweet and savory fusion of Maple Glazed Challah Rolls, a creative spin on classic challah bread. The incorporation of maple syrup and a drizzle of maple glaze infuses these tender rolls with a subtle yet distinct flavor profile, perfect for elevating any meal experience. Whether it’s Thanksgiving or another special occasion, these soft and delectable rolls are sure to impress, requiring minimal effort while yielding maximum impact.

Challah French Toast Casserole

Indulge in the decadence of Challah French Toast Casserole, an overnight delight that’s as easy to assemble as it is satisfying to devour. The combination of fluffy challah bread, eggs, milk, and a hint of brown sugar and spices creates a rich and flavorful custard that soaks into the bread, resulting in a tender and moist texture. The crowning glory is the buttery crust and sweet cinnamon sugar topping, which adds an extra layer of indulgence to each slice.

And don’t worry about it falling apart – letting the casserole rest before serving ensures the bread has absorbed all the liquid, making it easy to cut into neat slices. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a lazy weekend treat, this Challah French Toast Casserole is an absolute must-try.

Braided Challah

Braided Challah is a show-stopping bread that effortlessly combines delicious flavor with stunning visual appeal. This delectable treat requires just a few simple ingredients, including flour, yeast, sugar, salt, eggs, honey, and oil, which come together to form a soft and aromatic dough. The process of shaping the dough into ropes and then braiding it into a loaf is meditative and rewarding.

Once brushed with an egg wash and baked to perfection, the challah emerges from the oven with a golden brown crust and a tender interior that’s simply irresistible. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this mouthwatering bread is sure to impress.

Easy Round Challah

Crafting delectable challah bread has never been easier with the Easy Round Challah recipe. This straightforward formula yields a dough that’s a joy to work with, resulting in a soft and pliable texture. The addition of cinnamon and brown sugar within the filling injects a welcome sweetness into the bread. The braiding technique employed here masterfully creates a stunning round shape, while the loaves’ golden-brown hue and egg wash sheen add to their visual appeal.

For optimal results, it’s recommended to allow the loaves to rest before serving, allowing them to complete their cooking cycle. This recipe is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to produce a scrumptious and visually pleasing challah.