bread machine challah recipe

bread machine challah recipe

The Best bread machine challah recipe

I’ve been making bread machine challah for years, and it’s still a staple in our household. My kids love helping me mix and knead the dough, and they always get excited when they see the finished product. The best part is that this recipe is incredibly easy to make, even for a beginner.

All you need is a bread machine, some basic ingredients, and about an hour of your time. I like to make challah on weekends or during the holidays when I have more time to spend in the kitchen. It’s perfect for special occasions or just a regular Tuesday dinner.

The smell of freshly baked challah wafting through the house is unbeatable. Plus, it’s surprisingly healthy considering how delicious it is. I use whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar content to make it a bit more nutritious.

My family loves it when I serve it with soup or as a side dish for our meals. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can top it with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even chocolate chips for a sweet treat. My kids prefer the classic egg wash on top, but I like to mix things up and try different toppings.

This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m so glad I can share it with you now.

Bread Machine Challah

Bread Machine Challah

4.6 from 1020 votes

This challah recipe uses a bread machine to mix and knead the dough, saving you time and effort. The result is a soft, rich, and slightly sweet braided loaf with a beautiful golden crust, perfect for Shabbat or any special occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 50 mins
Servings: 1 loaf (12 slices)Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 210 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

1 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
3 cups bread flour
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons active dry yeast

For the Egg Wash

1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon poppy seeds or sesame seeds (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Add the warm water, egg, egg yolk, bread flour, honey, vegetable oil, salt, and yeast to the bread machine pan in the order recommended by your machine’s manufacturer.
2Select the dough cycle and press start; this cycle will knead and rise the dough for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
3When the dough cycle is complete, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
4Divide the dough into three equal pieces and roll each piece into a rope about 12 inches long, ensuring they are of even thickness.
5Pinch the three ropes together at one end and braid them tightly, tucking the ends under to seal.
6Place the braided loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
7Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) about 15 minutes before the rising time is complete.
8In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water for the egg wash, then brush the mixture generously over the risen challah, being careful not to deflate it.
9Sprinkle the top with poppy seeds or sesame seeds if desired.
10Bake the challah in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is deep golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11Remove the challah from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
12Serve warm or at room temperature.

🔧Equipment

Bread machine
Large baking sheet
Pastry brush
Sharp knife or kitchen scissors
Clean kitchen towel

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 210 kcal🧈Total Fat: 5g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 290mg🌾Total Carbs: 36g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 6g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, you can substitute the water with milk, but reduce the water to 3/4 cup. If you prefer a sweeter challah, increase the honey to 4 tablespoons. The dough can also be shaped into a round spiral loaf instead of a braid.

Watch Video Of How Bread Machine Challah Works

This bread machine challah recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, and I honestly think it is always a good idea for any occasion. Whether it is a holiday dinner, a casual weekend brunch, or just a way to make a weekday meal feel special, this bread delivers.

It is soft, slightly sweet, and has that beautiful braided look that impresses everyone. To store leftover challah, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in a bread box at room temperature for up to three days.

You can also freeze it for up to a month; just slice it before freezing so you can toast individual pieces. To reheat, pop it in a 350 degree oven for about 5 minutes or use a toaster.

Serve it warm with butter, honey, or use it for French toast. It is a versatile bread that works for everything from sandwiches to bread pudding, and I love having it on hand for my family and friends.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bread Machine Challah

Q: What type of flour should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using bread flour or all-purpose flour for this recipe. Bread flour will give you a more dense and chewy texture, while all-purpose flour will result in a lighter texture.

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

No, you should use instant yeast for this recipe as it will give you better results. Active dry yeast requires longer rising times and may not produce the same level of fermentation.

Q: How do I know if my dough is fully risen?

Check your dough after about 1 hour of rising time. It should have doubled in size and feel light and airy to the touch.

Q: Can I make this recipe by hand instead of using a bread machine?

You can make this recipe by hand, but keep in mind that it will require more time and effort to knead and rise the dough.

Q: What if my challah doesn’t turn out golden brown?

This could be due to several factors such as incorrect oven temperature or inadequate browning time. Try adjusting your oven temperature or baking time to achieve the desired result.

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