mariahhcooks on March 22, 2026: "Homemade Challah Bread 🍞 RECIPE ⬇️ Ingredients • 1 cup warm water (240 g) • 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (7 g) • ¼ cup sugar (50 g) • 4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted (480 g) • 1 tbsp kosher salt (18 g) • 1 tsp sugar (4 g) • 2 eggs + 1 egg yolk, room temp • ¼ cup olive oil (60 g) Egg Wash • 1 egg, room temp • 1–2 tbsp water ⸻ Instructions 1. Activate the yeast In a bowl combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy. 2. Make the dough Add eggs, egg yolk, and olive oil. Mix, then add flour, salt, and remaining sugar. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. 3. First rise Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour 45 minutes, or until doubled in size. 4. Divide & shape Punch down dough and divide into 2 equal portions (for 2 loaves). Take one portion and divide into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into long ropes (about 12–16 inches). Pinch all 6 together at the top. 5. 6-strand braid Number strands 1–6 from left to right: • Take the far right strand → move it all the way to the left • Take the new second strand from the left → move it to the far right • Take the far left strand → move it to the middle Repeat until fully braided, then pinch and tuck the ends. 6. Second rise Place braided loaves on a lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise 1 hour to 1½ hours until puffy. 7. Egg wash Whisk egg and water, then brush generously over the entire loaf, making sure to get in every crease and fully coat. 8. Bake Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until deep golden brown and cooked through. #challah #challahbread #baking #homemade #explorepage".