Water Challah Recipe Easy and Fluffy Homemade Bread

Challah is a beloved traditional Jewish bread known for its soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor. Typically enriched with eggs, challah has a rich and tender crumb that makes it perfect for festive occasions and everyday enjoyment alike.

However, if you’re looking for a lighter, egg-free alternative without compromising on flavor or texture, our Water Challah Recipe is here to delight you. This version replaces eggs with water and a few simple pantry staples, making it suitable for vegans and those with egg allergies.

Despite its simplicity, this water-based challah turns out beautifully braided with a golden crust and a tender, airy interior. It’s perfect for Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, or just as a comforting homemade bread.

Plus, it’s a great recipe to try if you’re new to bread baking or want a quicker, fuss-free challah without the richness of eggs. Ready to bake this delicious, wholesome bread?

Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Water Challah Recipe is a game-changer for anyone seeking a dairy-free, egg-free bread option that doesn’t sacrifice the signature challah taste and texture. By using water instead of eggs, the bread becomes lighter and more affordable to make while still achieving the classic golden crust and soft crumb.

It’s also incredibly versatile — you can customize the sweetness, add toppings like sesame or poppy seeds, or even experiment with braiding styles. The recipe uses basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, making it accessible for beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or simply want a fresh take on a traditional favorite, this water challah is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with meals or enjoyed on its own with a bit of jam or butter.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or olive oil)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional, for topping)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or dough whisk
• Stand mixer with dough hook (optional)
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap
• Baking sheet or challah pan
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Stir until sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is active and ready.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In your large mixing bowl, pour in the vegetable oil and apple cider vinegar. Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the bowl and stir to combine.
3. Add dry ingredients: Gradually add 3 1/2 cups of the flour and the salt to the wet ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough whisk until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Form the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead by hand for about 8-10 minutes, adding more flour as needed to prevent sticking. The dough should be smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6-7 minutes.
5. First rise: Lightly oil a clean bowl and place the dough inside, turning it to coat with oil. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the challah: Punch down the risen dough gently to release air. Divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each into long ropes about 12-14 inches long. Lay the ropes side by side and pinch the tops together. Braid the strands tightly, then tuck the ends underneath for a neat finish.
7. Second rise: Place the braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it loosely with a towel and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffed.
8. Preheat oven: While the dough rises, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Prepare for baking: Just before baking, brush the challah lightly with water or a mixture of water and a pinch of sugar to help the crust brown nicely. Sprinkle sesame or poppy seeds on top if desired.
10. Bake: Bake the challah in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Cool: Remove from oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before slicing to ensure the best texture.

Tips & Variations

“If you want a slightly sweeter challah, increase the sugar to 1/3 cup. For a richer flavor, feel free to brush the loaf with melted vegan butter right after baking.”

For a softer crust, cover the challah with a clean kitchen towel as it cools. Experiment with different braids such as a four or six-strand braid for a stunning presentation.

You can also add raisins or dried fruit to the dough for a sweet twist, or swirl in cinnamon and sugar before braiding for a flavorful variation. If you want to make rolls instead of one loaf, divide the dough into smaller pieces and shape them into mini challahs.

For additional inspiration, check out other delicious vegan recipes like our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food or refreshing Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This water challah is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm or toasted with a smear of your favorite jam or vegan butter for breakfast or a snack.

It’s also an excellent accompaniment to hearty soups and stews. Try pairing it with comforting dishes like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or a bowl of rich vegetable curry.

For a festive meal, use slices of challah for sandwiches or French toast. Its slightly sweet and soft texture makes it perfect for soaking up sauces and gravies.

Conclusion

Our Water Challah Recipe offers a delightful alternative to traditional challah that’s lighter, egg-free, and perfect for a variety of diets. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking this challah at home is both rewarding and enjoyable.

The result is a beautifully braided loaf with a tender crumb and golden crust that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re celebrating Shabbat, hosting a holiday meal, or just craving fresh homemade bread, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. For more delicious and wholesome plant-based recipes, don’t miss our Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals collection, which offers a wide range of easy and tasty dishes to try.

Happy baking, and enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste of freshly baked water challah in your home!

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