Small Challah Recipe Easy to Make and Delicious Every Time

Challah is a beloved Jewish bread known for its beautiful braided design, shiny golden crust, and soft, slightly sweet interior. Traditionally enjoyed during Shabbat and holiday meals, challah symbolizes unity and community.

However, making a full-sized challah can sometimes feel daunting, especially if you’re baking for just a few people or want a smaller, manageable loaf. This small challah recipe is perfect for anyone seeking that authentic taste and texture without the bulk.

It’s simple to prepare, requires basic ingredients, and yields a charming loaf ideal for sharing at intimate dinners, family breakfasts, or simply enjoying with your favorite spreads. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe will guide you through every step with ease.

In this post, you’ll discover why this small challah is a must-try, the key ingredients and equipment needed, detailed instructions, plus handy tips and variations to customize your bread. We’ll also cover nutrition facts and serving suggestions to help you enjoy your challah to the fullest.

Ready to bake? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This small challah recipe stands out for several reasons. First, its size is perfect for smaller households or those who prefer fresh bread daily without waste.

The dough yields a tender crumb with a slightly sweet flavor, thanks to honey and a touch of sugar, making it versatile for both savory and sweet accompaniments.

Another great aspect is the straightforward process—no fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients are required. Plus, the braided shape adds a lovely presentation touch, making it ideal for gifts or festive occasions.

If you enjoy baking but want something manageable and rewarding, this challah recipe is ideal.

Lastly, it pairs beautifully with many dishes, from classic dips to hearty stews, enhancing your meals with homemade goodness.

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• ½ cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 2 large eggs (for vegan alternative, use flax eggs or aquafaba)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus extra for greasing)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)
• 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash

Equipment

• Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk and wooden spoon or dough hook attachment for stand mixer
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap – for covering dough
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Pastry brush – for applying egg wash
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This step ensures your yeast is alive and ready to work.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, eggs, and vegetable oil. Once combined, add the yeast mixture and stir well.
3. Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6-7 minutes.
5. First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl, place the dough inside, and cover it with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. Shape the challah: Punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into three equal strands. Roll each into a long rope about 12 inches. Braid the three ropes tightly, pinching the ends to seal.
7. Second rise: Place the braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover again and let it rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.
8. Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the egg yolk with water, then brush this egg wash gently over the challah to achieve a glossy, golden crust.
9. Add toppings: Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds over the loaf if desired.
10. Bake: Bake the challah for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Cool: Transfer the bread to a cooling rack and let it cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

“For a vegan challah, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.”

Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or orange zest to the dough for a subtle aromatic twist. If you want a richer loaf, substitute half of the vegetable oil with melted butter.

For a different shape, try a simple two-strand twist or even a round challah. You can also make mini challahs using individual rolls braided or twisted for personal servings.

Ensure your water temperature for activating yeast is not too hot—it should feel warm to the touch but not scalding, or it might kill the yeast.

Want more vegan inspiration? Check out our Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for creative meal ideas.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This small challah is perfect served fresh with a variety of toppings. Try it with classic spreads like butter, cream cheese, or your favorite jam for breakfast or snacks.

It’s also excellent alongside hearty soups or stews. For a festive meal, pair your challah with dishes like chicken, roasted vegetables, or even vegetarian options such as the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.

For a sweet treat, slice and toast the challah, then drizzle with honey or cinnamon sugar. Leftovers can be used to make French toast or bread pudding, giving new life to this delicious bread.

Conclusion

Baking your own small challah is a rewarding experience that brings warmth and tradition into your kitchen. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness, softness, and a beautiful golden crust, all in a manageable size.

Whether you’re preparing it for a special Shabbat meal or simply craving fresh homemade bread, this challah will not disappoint.

Its simplicity makes it accessible for bakers of all levels, and the ability to customize ingredients means you can tailor it to your dietary preferences. Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and shapes to make it your own.

For more delicious homemade bread and vegan-friendly meal ideas, explore our inspiring recipes like the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas or the comforting Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

Enjoy baking and savoring every bite of your lovely small challah!

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