Challah Tips
How do you make challah with more braids?
This recipe makes a braided loaf with 3 strands, but you can create more intricate braids with 4 or even 6 strands, if you wish. To make a simple 4-strand braid, follow the instructions for our
celebration braid.
There are different methods for making a loaf with 6 strands. The first, and simplest, is to layer two separate 3-strand braids, as we do in our
braided egg bread. To braid the 6 strands, start by dividing the dough and rolling it into 6 even ropes. Pinch the ropes together at one end, then tuck the end under. To braid, start with the far-right rope and weave toward the left in this pattern: over 2 strands, under 1 strand, over 2 strands. Start again at the new far-right rope and weave toward the left in the same pattern. Keep repeating until the whole loaf is braided. Pinch the ends together, then tuck the end under.
How do you make a round challah?
Although elongated loaves of challah are a year-round treat,
round challahs are traditional for
Rosh Hashanah because they represent continuity and the cyclical nature of the world. To create a round loaf, first create the braid, then wrap it around itself in a coil and tuck the end under. It's a good idea to make the individual ropes a little longer so the braid is long enough to shape into a full coil.
How do you store challah?
Store a completely cooled challah in an airtight container at room temperature. It will keep fresh for a few days. Another option is to freeze it for up to 6 months. To freeze challah, wrap it tightly in foil or freezer paper. Here's more on
how to store bread.
What can you make with leftover challah?
If you haven’t yet tried french toast or bread pudding made with a loaf of challah, you’re in for a treat! The egg in the challah gives these dishes a rich, custardy texture. Try
chocolate challah french toast or
challah bread pudding. You can also use a loaf of challah in place of brioche bread in recipes like our
best french toast.
—Hazel Wheaton, Taste of Home Book Editor
Nutrition Facts
1 piece: 139 calories, 5g fat (1g saturated fat), 29mg cholesterol, 233mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 4g protein.