Six Strand Braid Challah

January's King Arthur Flour's Bakelaong Challenge

by Lora Wiley-Lennartz January 17, 2018

written by Lora Wiley-Lennartz January 17, 2018

I’ve only made challah a few times, so I was excited for this month’s King Arthur Flour Bakealong Challenge showcasing a Six Strand Braid Challah. Their site offers plenty of tips for making the Challah and creating the six-strand braid. Here’s my tip – don’t try to braid the challah when you have a bad cold.

When I got to the braiding step, what should have taken only a few minutes took about 30. Lightheaded from being sick, I just couldn’t catch the rhythm of shaping the braid. I kept messing up and having to start over. Probably not the best thing to handle the dough for that long.

However, stubborn is my middle name, so I will make this six-braid design happen for this Six Strand Braid Challah. It did – sort of. However, the recipe is a winner. And my challah result did look pretty even if it was a bit wonky on one end. My loaf is too long and thin. Shorter and squatter is better. So now I have a great excuse for a do-over. in the near future.

Challah?

Challah bread is a sweet bread with deep cultural roots. This golden, slightly sweet bread comes from Jewish tradition and is enjoyed on Shabbat and holidays. Its soft, airy texture and shiny crust make it instantly recognizable. Historically, Challah dates back to biblical times when a portion of dough was set aside as an offering. It is a symbol of faith, community, and celebration. Today, Challah bread is loved around the world for both its taste and meaning. Moreover, each braid strand represents unity, love, and continuity. Whether serving it plain, sprinkled with sesame seeds, or turned into French toast, Challah connects generations through flavor and tradition.

This Six Strand Braid Challah is a lovely, tasty recipe and a great way to start making Challah for first-timers. Beware, the rise times are long, so start early. This is a perfect recipe to add to your arsenal.