Challah Bread

I really enjoy trying new recipes. Whether its to cook a new meal for dinner or bake something special. It's really fun for me. I think it is because my mom spent a lot of time with me growing up, teaching me how to bake and cook. I learned pretty quickly.

I also learned very quickly that things do not always turn out the way I would have liked. But, I don't give up and I think that's important.

So, Saturday night I was looking at my new cookbook that my brother-in-law Cameron gave me, and found a recipe for Challah bread. Now, I have to admit. I was actually pretty intimidated by it because of the braiding. Funny, huh? But once I read the directions and looked at the cookbook's step by step instructions on how to actually braid the dough. I thought, hey, I can do this! So, I went to work.

What do you think? It's not picture perfect but I think it's pretty good for my first! It was a long process, as bread typically is, waiting for the dough to rise. I made it to bring to my in-laws for Sunday night's dinner.

Here's the recipe if you want to try:

2 1/2 tsp. active dry yeast
1/2 cup warm water (110 to 115 degrees F)
4 Tbsp. vegetable oil
8 tsp. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. salt
2 eggs
approx. 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Topping:
2 Tbsp beaten egg
1/2 tsp. cold water
3/4 tsp sesame or poppy seeds (optional)

1. In a small mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the oil, sugar, salt, egg, and 2 cups of the flour to form a soft dough
2. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a bowl coated with cooking spray, turning once to coat top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled...about 1 hour.
3. Punch dough down. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; divide into thirds. Shape each portion into an 13 in. rope. Place ropes on a baking sheet coated with cooking spray and braid; pinch ends to seal and tuck under. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 45 minutes.
   
4. Beat egg and water; brush over braid. Sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired. Bake at 350 degrees F for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to a wire rack to cool.
   

Yields: 1 loaf (16 slices)

If you would like the instructions on how to braid the ropes, please let me know!

I hope your first Monday in the New Year starts out right! Enjoy your week!