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Winter Edition: Cozy Challah Breads to Warm Your Winter

Author

Andrew Hazen
January 17, 2025

Dear JewishRecipes.com Community,

As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh challah bread baking in the oven to warm both your home and heart. This winter, we’re thrilled to share four exceptional challah recipes—from beloved traditional loaves to exciting modern twists—that are perfect for cozy Shabbat dinners or festive gatherings. Each recipe is kosher, comforting, and designed to make your winter deliciously memorable.

1. Classic Braided Challah

A timeless favorite, this traditional challah is rich, golden, and slightly sweet, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

  • 4 1/2 tsp active dry yeast

  • 1 cup warm water

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

  • 4 large eggs (3 for the dough, 1 for egg wash)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 5-6 cups all-purpose flour

  • Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Dissolve yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in warm water; let sit for 5 minutes.

  2. Add sugar, oil, eggs, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in flour until the dough is soft but not sticky.

  3. Knead for 8-10 minutes. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled.

  4. Divide dough into three strands, braid, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  5. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.

2. Cinnamon Swirl Challah

Infused with warm spices, this challah is ideal for a cozy winter morning or dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 4 1/2 tsp active dry yeast

  • 1 cup warm water

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

  • 4 large eggs (3 for the dough, 1 for egg wash)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 5-6 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup sugar mixed with 2 tbsp cinnamon for filling

  • Optional glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk

Instructions:

  1. Prepare dough as in the Classic Challah recipe.

  2. Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture.

  3. Roll into a log, slice in half lengthwise, and twist the two pieces together.

  4. Place in a loaf pan, let rise for 30 minutes. Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes.

  5. Drizzle glaze over the challah after cooling.

3. Everything Bagel Challah

This savory challah combines the best of two Jewish staples: challah and everything bagels.

Ingredients:

  • 4 1/2 tsp active dry yeast

  • 1 cup warm water

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

  • 4 large eggs (3 for the dough, 1 for egg wash)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 5-6 cups all-purpose flour

  • 3 tbsp everything bagel seasoning

Instructions:

  1. Prepare dough as in the Classic Challah recipe.

  2. Shape into a braid or round loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  3. Brush with beaten egg and generously sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.

  4. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.

4. Chocolate Chip Challah

This slightly sweet challah is perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s a delightful treat for dessert or breakfast.

Ingredients:

  • 4 1/2 tsp active dry yeast

  • 1 cup warm water

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

  • 4 large eggs (3 for the dough, 1 for egg wash)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 5-6 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Prepare dough as in the Classic Challah recipe.

  2. Knead chocolate chips into the dough before shaping.

  3. Shape into a braid or round loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  4. Brush with beaten egg. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.

Each of these challah recipes is sure to bring joy to your table and warmth to your home this winter. We’d love to see your creations! Share your challah photos with us on social media using #JewishRecipesChallah.

Challah Tips & Tricks

Creating the perfect challah requires a mix of technique and creativity. Here are some helpful tips to make your challah baking even more successful:

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and other ingredients are at room temperature to ensure even mixing and rising.

  • Warm Rising Environment: In the winter, dough can take longer to rise. Place your bowl near a warm spot, like an oven with the light on or a sunny windowsill.

  • Avoid Over-flouring: Add flour gradually to the dough to prevent it from becoming too dry. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

  • Perfect Braiding: Practice makes perfect! If braiding is challenging, start with a simple three-strand braid and work your way up to more intricate designs.

  • Egg Wash Tips: For a shiny crust, brush your challah with egg wash twice—once before rising and again just before baking.

  • Storage: To keep challah fresh, store it in a sealed plastic bag once it’s completely cool. For longer storage, freeze the loaf in slices for easy defrosting.

  • Creative Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add raisins, nuts, or spices to give your challah a unique twist.

Each tip will help you elevate your challah game this winter. Experiment and enjoy the process!

Stay warm and happy baking!

Warmly,
The JewishRecipes.com Team

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