Golden braided egg bread
Challah
Prep Time
30 min
Cook Time
30 min
Total Time
3 hr
Servings
10
1 large loaf
Difficulty
Medium
Cost
Budget
$
Challah
Golden braided egg bread
★4.3(24)
A stunning braided loaf with a golden, glossy crust and soft, slightly sweet crumb. This traditional challah is enriched with eggs and honey for an incredibly tender bread.
30m
Prep Time
30m
Cook Time
180m
Total Time
10
Servings
Medium
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
Challah is as beautiful as it is delicious—the braided shape creates a showstopping loaf with a soft, slightly sweet interior. The dough is simple and forgiving, making it a wonderful bread for beginners.
The best side dishes do not just accompany the main course — they elevate the entire meal. This one brings flavor and personality to the table.
This version of Challah has been refined through testing to ensure consistently excellent results. Side dishes are where creativity shines without the pressure of being the star. This recipe takes advantage of that freedom, using bold seasoning and smart technique to produce something far more interesting than a basic afterthought.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs (plus 1 for egg wash)
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- 1
Mix warm water (1/2 cup), honey, and yeast. Let sit 5 minutes. Add eggs, oil, flour, and salt. Knead 8 minutes until smooth.
- 2
Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1.5 hours until doubled.
- 3
Divide the dough into 3 equal pieces and roll each into a 16-inch rope.
- 4
Braid the three ropes together, pinching the ends and tucking them under. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- 5
Cover and let rise 45 minutes. Brush with beaten egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake at 350°F for 28-32 minutes until deep golden.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal
Pair with your favorite grain or bread on the side
Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation
Substitutions
HoneySugar (1/4 cup)
Slightly different flavor but still traditional
Vegetable oilMelted butter
Richer flavor but no longer pareve for kosher cooking
Sour creamGreek yogurt
Full-fat Greek yogurt provides the same tanginess and creaminess with more protein. Use it as a one-to-one substitute in both cooking and as a topping.
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
For the glossiest crust, apply two coats of egg wash—one before the final rise and one just before baking.
Braid the dough snugly but not too tight, as it will expand during the final rise.
Let the protein rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Season each component individually rather than seasoning at the end — this builds deeper, more complex flavor throughout.
Storage
Store in a sealed bag at room temperature for 3 days. Makes incredible French toast the next day.
Reheating
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying. Stovetop reheating over medium-low heat is also effective.
Recipe Notes from Our Kitchen
Editor's Note
Editor's note: Do not crowd the pan when roasting. Vegetables need space to brown properly — overlapping pieces steam instead of caramelize. Use two sheet pans if needed.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (55mg) · 10 servings
Calories260
LowModerateHigh
A moderate-calorie serving · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein8g
Carbohydrates6g
Fat44g
Fiber250mg
Sugar2g
Sodium8g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I do a 6-strand braid?
- Start with 6 equal ropes and follow a numbering pattern—many tutorials show the technique visually.
- Can I make challah dairy-free?
- This recipe is already dairy-free. Use plant milk for egg wash if needed.
- Can I freeze this?
- Cooked grains, roasted vegetables, and most cooked sides freeze well for up to 2 months. Cool completely first, then portion into freezer bags and press out the air. Raw salads and delicate preparations do not freeze well.
- Can I make this ahead?
- Yes. Most side dishes hold well for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes, or on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil if needed to refresh the texture.
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About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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