Name: Homemade Challah Bread Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); ¾ cup warm water (110°F / 43°C); ⅓ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 ½ tsp salt; 1 egg; 1 tbsp water

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 225 reviews

If you have ever wanted to try your hand at baking a truly special loaf, you’re in for a treat with this Homemade Challah Bread Recipe. This classic braided bread boasts a soft, tender crumb and a subtle sweetness that makes it perfect for everything from sandwiches to decadent French toast. Rich but light, the golden crust and delicate texture will have you falling in love with homemade bread all over again. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will guide you through creating a stunning loaf that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A neatly arranged flat lay of baking ingredients is set on a white marbled surface, featuring a golden, braided loaf of bread on the left side. To the right, a clear measuring cup is filled with white milk, and above it is a small honey bear bottle with a yellow cap. Below the milk is a small glass bowl with a dark brown liquid and next to it, a glass bowl full of walnut pieces. Towards the bottom left, a small white dish holds coarse white salt, and on the bottom right, four brown eggs are lined in a row. In the center, there is a clear jar labeled

This Homemade Challah Bread Recipe relies on simple, time-tested ingredients that each play an essential role. From the yeast that helps the dough rise beautifully, to the eggs and oil that provide richness and softness, every component is critical to achieving the bread’s signature texture and flavor.

All-purpose flour (4 cups): The foundation for the dough, providing structure and chewiness.
Active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp / 1 packet): The magical ingredient that makes the dough rise and become airy.
Warm water (¾ cup at 110°F / 43°C): Activates the yeast and helps blend the dough smoothly.
Granulated sugar (⅓ cup): Adds a subtle sweetness and aids yeast fermentation.
Vegetable oil or melted butter (¼ cup): Gives the bread richness and tender crumb.
Eggs (2 large, room temperature): Contribute to flavor, moisture, and that beautiful golden color.
Salt (1 ½ tsp): Balances flavor and controls yeast activity.
Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water): Creates a shiny, inviting crust when brushed before baking.

How to Make Homemade Challah Bread Recipe

Step 1: Activating the Yeast

Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let this mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy on top. This foam signals that your yeast is alive and kicking, ready to make your bread rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mixing the Dough

Next, add the vegetable oil (or melted butter), eggs, salt, and 2 cups of flour to your yeast mixture. Stir everything together until combined. This initial mixing starts bringing your dough together in a delightful way, creating the base of the soft texture you’re aiming for.

Step 3: Adding Remaining Flour

Gradually incorporate the rest of the flour to the bowl, stirring gently as you go. Your goal here is to form a soft dough that’s just a little sticky but holds together well. The gradual addition ensures your dough isn’t too dry or tough.

Step 4: Kneading

Transfer the dough onto a well-floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the gluten, which gives the bread its chewy, elastic structure. The dough should become smooth and elastic by the end of kneading.

Step 5: First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot. The wait of 1 to 1 ½ hours allows the dough to double in size, which is what gives Challah its wonderfully airy texture.

Step 6: Shaping the Loaf

Once risen, punch the dough down gently to release the air. Divide it into three equal strands if you want a traditional braid or into 4 to 6 strands for a more intricate look. Braid the strands carefully and place your gorgeous loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover your braided dough and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until it looks puffy and ready to bake. This second rise ensures the bread will have that perfect lift and soft crumb inside.

Step 8: Egg Wash and Baking

Brush the loaf gently with the egg wash mixture to give it that characteristic glossy, golden finish once baked. Bake the loaf at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye out for a deep golden brown color, signaling that your bread is perfectly baked.

Step 9: Cooling

Once out of the oven, transfer your bread to a wire rack and let it cool completely. This resting time settles the crumb and prevents the loaf from becoming gummy when sliced.

How to Serve Homemade Challah Bread Recipe

Two golden brown braided loaves of bread with a shiny, smooth crust rest side by side on a wooden board. The bread has three thick, soft strands woven tightly, creating a plump and fluffy texture with a slightly shiny surface from an egg wash. One loaf is partly covered with a light beige cloth on the bottom left. To the right, a butter knife with some butter on its blade lies on the white marbled surface next to the board. The whole scene is bright and clean. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add an extra pop of flavor and texture, consider sprinkling sesame seeds or poppy seeds on your Challah before baking. These traditional garnishes lend a subtle nutty aroma and a little crunch, making the loaf even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

This Homemade Challah Bread Recipe shines alongside a variety of dishes. Try serving it with rich stews, creamy dips, or even smoked fish for a classic combination. Its slight sweetness balances savory flavors beautifully and rounds out any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by turning your Challah into sandwiches stuffed with savory fillings like roasted vegetables or spiced chicken, or slice it thick for indulgent French toast topped with fresh berries and maple syrup. The braided loaf also makes a stunning centerpiece for holiday tables or special breakfasts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Challah fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or placing it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay soft and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying over several meals.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy your Homemade Challah Bread Recipe later, slice the loaf and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen Challah lasts up to 3 months and can be toasted directly from the freezer for a quick treat.

Reheating

To revive the soft texture of your bread, warm slices gently in a toaster or oven at low heat. For an extra special touch, slather on butter while warm—it melts perfectly and brings the loaf back to life.

FAQs

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Bread flour has more protein which can create a chewier texture and greater rise, but your Challah will still turn out beautifully with all-purpose flour. Both work well in this recipe.

Why do I need to use warm water for the yeast?

Warm water activates the yeast so it can start producing the gases needed for the bread to rise. Too hot or too cold water can kill or inhibit the yeast, so aim for around 110°F / 43°C.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, just swap the butter for vegetable oil and use an egg substitute if needed. The bread may be a touch less rich, but it will still have that signature tender crumb and flavor.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, it usually means the yeast was inactive or the environment was too cold. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and keep the dough in a warm, draft-free place for rising.

How long does Challah keep once baked?

Freshly baked Challah stays best for about 2 to 3 days at room temperature. To keep it longer, freezing is your best option to preserve texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Challah Bread Recipe is a wonderful way to bring tradition and warmth into your kitchen with every loaf. The simple ingredients and straightforward process come together to create a bread that feels special yet comforting. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying it yourself, baking Challah is an experience worth savoring again and again. I hope you give this recipe a try and love it as much as I do!