French Bread Challah Recipe

Name: French Bread Challah
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons yeast; 2 tablespoons yeast energizer; 2 cups warm water; 2 tablespoons sugar; ¼ cup margarine; 1 tablespoon salt; 6 cups bread flour, divided; 1 tablespoon garlic, crushed (optional); 1 egg; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, coarse

Servings: persons

1
Stir the yeast and yeast energizer into warm water; let stand for 5 minutes to dissolve.
2
Add the sugar, margarine, and 1 Tablespoon salt, and stir well.
3
Add 2 cups of flour, and beat thoroughly.
4
Add 3 more cups of flour and mix well.
5
Knead for a few minutes and let rest for 10 minutes.
6
Resume kneading, adding the remaining flour until the dough is no longer sticky but very smooth and elastic.
7
Let rise in a warm place until doubled (1-1/2 hours).
8
Punch down, knead again, and braid into 2-4 challah, depending on size requirements.
9
Optional: While you are braiding, add in the crushed garlic.
10
Let rise 1/2 hour.
11
Right before baking, coat with egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame seeds and coarse salt.
12
Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for 35 to 45 minutes.

742

kcal

Calories

Fat

139

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
A good 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works well if you need a gluten-free version.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 11 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 2 tablespoons yeast, 2 tablespoons yeast energizer, 2 cups warm water, 2 tablespoons sugar, and more.

Yes, French Bread Challah falls under the General category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

French Bread Challah

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions