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Amazing Spiced Challah Bread: 1 Joyful Loaf

Spiced Challah Bread

Bake a beautiful and fragrant Spiced Challah Bread, perfect for your holiday table. This recipe guides you through creating a soft, slightly sweet loaf infused with warm spices.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten, plus 1 for egg wash
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • 4 to 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • Sesame seeds or poppy seeds, for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Stir in salt, honey, beaten eggs, and vegetable oil.
  3. Gradually add 4 cups of flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding more flour as needed.
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down dough and divide into three equal portions.
  7. Roll each portion into a rope about 15 inches long.
  8. Pinch the ends of the ropes together and braid them.
  9. Place the braided challah on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
  10. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  11. Brush the top of the challah with the egg wash and sprinkle with seeds, if using.
  12. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  13. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Adjust spices to your preference.
  • For a richer flavor, you can use milk instead of water.
  • Ensure your yeast is fresh for a good rise.

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