Savory Everything Challah Bread

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Savory Everything Challah Bread.

1. Step 1

   Start by mixing the active dry yeast, warm water, and sugar in a large bowl. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar and let it sit for about 5 minutes until a creamy layer forms on top. This is your yeast activating, and it’s a crucial step for a fluffy bread!

2. Step 2

   Once your yeast is ready, stir in the vegetable oil. Then, sprinkle in the salt, poppy seeds, dried minced onion, dried minced garlic, garlic powder, and onion powder. This blend of seasonings will give your challah its signature flavor.

3. Step 3

   Now, it’s time to add the flour. Start by incorporating it one cup at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together. You may need to add more flour by half-cups until you achieve a smooth, elastic dough that isn’t sticky. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!

4. Step 4

   Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. Once kneaded, shape the dough into a round ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Turn the dough a few times in the bowl to coat it with oil, then cover it with a cloth and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which should take about an hour.

5. Step 5

   While the dough is rising, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal pieces. For a classic 3-strand braid, cut each piece into three smaller pieces.

6. Step 6

   On a floured surface, roll each small piece into a rope about the thickness of your thumb and around 12 inches long. Make sure the ropes are thicker in the middle and taper at the ends. Pinch the tops of three ropes together and start braiding! Begin with the rightmost strand, crossing it over the middle strand, then take the leftmost strand and cross it over the new middle strand. Continue this pattern until you reach the end, pinching the ends together and tucking them underneath for a polished look. Place the braided loaves on your prepared baking sheets and cover them to rise for another 30 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix together the sesame seeds, kosher salt, poppy seeds, dried minced onion, and dried minced garlic. Brush the loaves with the beaten egg, then sprinkle the seed mixture generously over the top. This will give your challah a beautiful finish and extra flavor!

8. Step 8

   Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for 45 to 60 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Start checking for doneness at the 45-minute mark. Once baked, let them cool slightly before slicing into this delicious, savory bread.