Get ready to indulge in a sweet twist on a classic favorite with our Chocolate Chip Challah Bread! This delightful recipe combines the rich, fluffy texture of traditional challah with the irresistible allure of chocolate chips, creating a loaf that's perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any occasion in between. Imagine slicing into a warm, freshly baked loaf, the chocolate melting into the soft bread—it's a treat that will have your taste buds dancing! Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through every step. Don't miss out on the chance to impress your friends and family with this mouthwatering creation!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Jewish
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 packet of active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, 1 cup of warm water (about 110°F), and 3 large eggs until fully combined.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Once the dough starts to come together, transfer it to a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough and knead gently to incorporate them evenly.
- Divide the dough into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 12-14 inches in length.
- Pinch the ends of the three ropes together at one end, then braid them together, pinching the ends again to seal. Tuck the ends under the loaf for a neat finish.
- Place the braided loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising.
- Once the loaf has risen, you can optionally brush the top with a beaten egg for a shiny finish.
- Bake the challah in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Chip Challah Bread!
Tips
- Measure Accurately: Ensure you measure your flour and other ingredients accurately for the best results. Too much flour can lead to a dense loaf, while too little can affect the structure.
- Knead Well: Kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic is key to achieving that perfect texture. Don’t rush this step; it usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
- Warm Rising Environment: Find a warm, draft-free spot for the dough to rise. If your kitchen is cool, you can place the bowl in an oven that’s turned off but has the light on to create a cozy environment.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips Gently: When adding the chocolate chips after the first rise, knead gently to avoid breaking the chips and ensure they’re evenly distributed.
- Braid Tightly: When braiding the dough, make sure to braid it tightly to prevent it from unraveling during the second rise and baking.
- Egg Wash for Shine: For a beautiful golden crust, brush the top of the loaf with a beaten egg before baking. This step adds a lovely sheen to your finished bread.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure your challah is perfectly baked, tap the bottom of the loaf; it should sound hollow. If it’s not quite there, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and makes for cleaner slices. Enjoy your baking adventure with this Chocolate Chip Challah Bread, and savor every delicious bite!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg
