Vegan Challah Bread Recipe

This vegan challah bread recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional Jewish bread. It is perfectly soft and fluffy, but with the unique addition of coconut oil instead of eggs, making it suitable for those following a vegan diet. The process is simple and the results are absolutely mouthwatering. Let's dive into how to create this delicious vegan challah bread.

Photos of Vegan Challah Bread Recipe

The key ingredient you might not normally have in your pantry is coconut oil. It's a fantastic vegan alternative to butter and eggs, providing a subtle sweetness and moisture to the bread. You can usually find coconut oil in the baking or health food aisles of your local supermarket.

Vegan Challah Bread Ingredients

Yeast: This is the leavening agent that helps the bread rise.

Granulated sugar: Gives the bread a subtle sweetness.

Warm water: Activates the yeast to help the bread rise.

Coconut oil: Acts as a vegan alternative to butter and eggs.

Baking Powder: Helps the bread rise and creates a fluffy texture.

All purpose flour: The main structure of the bread.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.

One reader, Briant Siebert says:

This vegan challah bread recipe is a game-changer! The bread turned out fluffy and delicious, with a perfect golden crust. The aroma filled my kitchen, and the taste was simply divine. I'm thrilled to have found a vegan version of this classic bread. Highly recommend trying it out!

Briant Siebert

Key Techniques for Crafting Vegan Challah Bread

How to activate yeast: Combine the yeast with a pinch of sugar and warm water, then let it rest until it becomes bubbly and bloomed.

How to knead dough: Gradually add up to 1 cup of flour to the dough and incorporate it by kneading with your hands until the dough is smooth and not sticking to the sides of the bowl.

How to braid challah bread: Cut the dough into even pieces, then braid it into the desired shape before transferring it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

How to check for doneness: Knock on the bottom of the bread to check for a hollow sound, indicating that the bread is done baking.

An ordinary challah bread is typically made with eggs, but ours is eggless which is perfect for vegans. Challah bread is known for its amazing braided design as well as its soft and fluffy texture. Truly, this traditional bread is one of the popular Jewish recipes served on ceremonial occasions, such as Shabbat and other holidays.

How To Make Vegan Challah Bread

Gather a few basic ingredients and get kneading for this vegan challah bread; a tasty Jewish holiday staple of soft and tasty braided dough.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Rest Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1.25ozyeast
½cupgranulated sugar,plus 1 pinch, divided
1cupwarm water,plus 3 tbsp, divided
6tbspcoconut oil,melted, divided, plus more for greasing bowl
2tspbaking powder
3cupsall purpose flour,plus more as needed
1½tspsalt

Instructions

In a medium bowl, combine the yeast and a pinch of sugar. Pour 1 cup of warm water over the yeast mixture while turning the bowl so it stirs itself.
Rest for 5 minutes, or until the yeast has bloomed and is bubbly, then add 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil.
In a separate medium bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of melted coconut oil, the remaining 3 tablespoons of warm water, and the baking powder.
In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups of flour, the table salt, and the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar.
While stirring, add the coconut oil and yeast mixtures to the dry ingredients and combine with a spoon. Once the dough is smooth, gradually add up to 1 cup of flour and incorporate by kneading the dough with hands.
Knead until the dough isn’t sticking to the sides of the bowl, then transfer to a large bowl greased with coconut oil.
Cover with a damp towel and let rest on the counter for 2 hours or until the dough has doubled in size.
Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured workspace. Knead gently to get out any large air bubbles, and form into a log shape. Depending on the braid, cut the dough into the appropriate amount of even pieces.
Braid into the desired shape and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cover with a damp towel and let rise again for 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
Lightly brush the challah with melted coconut oil for a nice shine and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, brushing with more coconut oil halfway through, until golden brown. To check for doneness, try knocking on the bottom of the bread. If it sounds hollow, it’s done.
Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 429.21kcal
Fat: 14.66g
Saturated Fat: 11.92g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.10g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.50g
Carbohydrates: 67.16g
Fiber: 3.28g
Sugar: 16.80g
Protein: 8.85g
Sodium: 324.88mg
Calcium: 125.54mg
Potassium: 123.73mg
Iron: 3.22mg
Vitamin C: 0.02mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Vegan Challah Bread

When kneading the dough, be sure to use the heel of your hand to push and stretch the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself and rotate it slightly before repeating the process. This technique helps to develop the gluten in the flour, giving your challah bread a light and airy texture. Remember, the dough should be smooth and elastic when it's ready. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to add too much as this can make the bread dry and dense.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Vegan Challah Bread

Plan ahead: Make the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight to save time on the day of baking.

Use a stand mixer: Use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough, which will save time and effort compared to kneading by hand.

Pre-measure ingredients: Pre-measure all the ingredients before starting the recipe to streamline the process and avoid last-minute measurements.

Substitute Ingredients For Vegan Challah Bread Recipe

yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used as a substitute for active dry yeast in equal amounts. It does not need to be dissolved in water before using, making it a convenient option for bread recipes.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a 1:1 substitute for granulated sugar. It has a lower glycemic index and adds a subtle caramel flavor to the bread.
warm water - Substitute with warm almond milk: Warm almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to warm water, adding a slightly nutty flavor to the challah bread.
coconut oil - Substitute with vegan butter: Vegan butter can be used as a substitute for coconut oil to provide richness and moisture to the bread dough.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and vinegar: A mixture of baking soda and vinegar can be used as a substitute for baking powder to help the dough rise.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used to add a nutty flavor and a denser texture to the challah bread, while still maintaining its vegan quality.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, adding a hint of brininess to the bread dough.

Presentation Ideas for Vegan Challah Bread

Artfully braid the challah: Create a beautifully braided challah loaf, ensuring each strand is evenly shaped and perfectly woven to showcase the bread's craftsmanship.
Garnish with sesame or poppy seeds: Sprinkle the top of the challah with a generous amount of sesame or poppy seeds to add a delightful crunch and visual appeal to the finished bread.
Present on a rustic wooden board: Display the vegan challah bread on a rustic wooden board to create a warm and inviting presentation that complements the wholesome nature of the bread.
Accompany with a selection of spreads: Serve the challah with an assortment of vegan spreads such as hummus, olive tapenade, or roasted red pepper spread to offer a variety of flavor pairings.
Incorporate fresh herbs as a garnish: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the bread with fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme, enhancing the visual appeal and infusing a subtle herbal aroma.
Pair with a curated selection of fruits: Create a visually stunning display by pairing the challah with a curated selection of fresh fruits, such as sliced figs, grapes, or berries, to add vibrant colors and a touch of sweetness to the presentation.
Serve with a drizzle of agave or maple syrup: Just before serving, delicately drizzle a small amount of agave or maple syrup over the challah to impart a subtle sweetness and a glossy finish to the bread.
Accompany with a side of vegan cheese: Offer a side of artisanal vegan cheese, such as cashew-based cheese or almond cheese, to provide a sophisticated and complementary element to the challah presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Vegan Challah Bread

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and kneading the dough.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to place the braided challah for baking.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line the baking sheet and prevent the challah from sticking.
Wire rack: A wire rack is used for cooling the challah after it's baked.
Brush: A brush is used to apply melted coconut oil on the challah before and during baking for a nice shine.
Oven: An oven is used for baking the challah at a specific temperature.
Food processor: A food processor can be used for kneading the dough, although it's not essential.
Measuring cups and spoons: These are used to measure the ingredients accurately.
Damp towel: A damp towel is used to cover the dough while it's resting and rising.
Knife: A knife is used to cut the dough into even pieces for braiding.
Large bowl: A large bowl is used for mixing and kneading the dough.
Medium bowl: A medium bowl is used for blooming the yeast and mixing other ingredients.
Spoon: A spoon is used for combining the ingredients and stirring the dough.
Floured workspace: A floured workspace is used for shaping and kneading the dough.
Greased bowl: A greased bowl is used for resting the dough while it rises.

Storing and Freezing Vegan Challah Bread

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for vegan challah bread:

Allow the challah bread to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing. This will prevent the bread from becoming soggy or developing condensation.
To store the challah bread at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The bread will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
If you plan to consume the challah bread within a week, you can store it in the refrigerator. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. The bread will stay fresh for up to 7 days in the refrigerator.
To freeze the challah bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen challah bread will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy the frozen bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat the challah bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is heated through and the crust is crispy.
If you prefer a softer crust, you can wrap the challah bread in a damp towel before reheating it in the oven. This will help to prevent the crust from becoming too crispy.

How To Reheat Leftover Vegan Challah Bread

The best way to reheat leftover vegan challah bread is to wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through and the crust is crispy again. This method helps to retain the bread's moisture and prevents it from drying out.
Another option is to slice the challah and toast it in a toaster or under the broiler for a few minutes on each side. This is a quick and easy way to reheat individual slices and get a nice, crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
If you prefer a softer crust, you can wrap the challah in a slightly damp paper towel and microwave it for 20-30 seconds, or until it's warm and soft. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can make the bread tough and rubbery.
For a fun twist, try making French toast with your leftover vegan challah! Slice the bread, dip it in a mixture of plant-based milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, and cook it in a pan with a little vegan butter or coconut oil until it's golden brown on both sides.
If you have a lot of leftover challah, consider making a bread pudding. Cut the bread into cubes, mix it with a vegan custard made from plant-based milk, sugar, and spices, and bake it in the oven until it's set and golden brown on top. This is a delicious and comforting way to use up stale bread and create a new dessert at the same time!

Interesting Fact About Vegan Challah Bread

The vegan challah bread recipe is a great option for those looking for a plant-based alternative to traditional challah. It's a delicious and versatile bread that can be enjoyed on its own or used in various recipes. Plus, it's a fun and rewarding baking project to take on, allowing you to create beautiful braided loaves. Whether you're vegan or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire.

Is Making Vegan Challah Bread at Home Cost-Effective?

This vegan challah bread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, depending on the availability and prices of the ingredients. As a culinary chef, I rate this recipe an 8/10 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is Vegan Challah Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?

This vegan challah bread recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest choice due to its high sugar and refined flour content. The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 3 cups of all-purpose flour, which can contribute to blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.

However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe:

The use of coconut oil instead of butter makes it suitable for vegans and may provide some health benefits due to its medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs).
The absence of eggs reduces the cholesterol content of the bread.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, spelt flour, or a gluten-free alternative like oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value.
Reduce the amount of sugar used in the recipe by half, or substitute it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or date paste.
Incorporate additional healthy ingredients such as ground flaxseed, chia seeds, or chopped nuts to boost the protein, fiber, and healthy fat content.
Brush the challah with aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) instead of coconut oil for a shiny finish without added fat.

Editor's Opinion on This Vegan Challah Bread Recipe

The vegan challah bread recipe provided is a delightful and flavorful option for those seeking a plant-based alternative. The use of coconut oil and warm water creates a rich and moist texture, while the addition of granulated sugar adds a touch of sweetness. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, making this recipe accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. The resulting bread is beautifully golden and boasts a soft, airy interior. Overall, this vegan challah bread recipe is a wonderful addition to any table, offering a delicious and cruelty-free twist on a classic favorite.

Enhance Your Vegan Challah Bread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with the vegan challah bread.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful and flavorful grilled vegetable skewers, a great addition to the vegan challah bread for a complete meal.

Mixed Berry Salad: A refreshing mixed berry salad with a tangy vinaigrette, a light and fruity side to complement the vegan challah bread.

Coconut Curry Lentil Soup: A warm and comforting coconut curry lentil soup, a hearty and satisfying dish to serve alongside the vegan challah bread.

Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Indulgent and creamy chocolate avocado mousse, a decadent dessert option to enjoy after a meal featuring the vegan challah bread.

Similar Recipes to Try Besides Vegan Challah Bread

Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers: These stuffed bell peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices, then topped with a zesty avocado sauce.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This creamy and refreshing chia pudding is made with coconut milk, fresh mango, and a hint of vanilla for a delicious and healthy dessert or snack.

Butternut Squash Soup: This comforting and creamy butternut squash soup is made with roasted butternut squash, onions, garlic, and a touch of nutmeg for a warm and satisfying meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Vegan Challah Bread

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, breadcrumbs, and vegan cheese. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Spring Rolls: Whip up a batch of crispy spring rolls filled with a colorful array of vegetables and served with a tangy dipping sauce. These light and crunchy appetizers are sure to impress your guests and kick off any gathering on a tasty note.

Desserts:

Vegan Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy vegan chocolate mousse, made with silken tofu and dairy-free chocolate. This decadent dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while still sticking to a plant-based diet.

Fruit Tart: Create a stunning fruit tart with a flaky vegan pastry crust and a luscious dairy-free custard filling. Top it off with an assortment of fresh berries and sliced fruits for a colorful and refreshing dessert that's sure to impress.

Why trust this Vegan Challah Bread Recipe:

This vegan challah bread recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and wholesome bread that fits their dietary preferences. The use of coconut oil and baking powder ensures a light and fluffy texture, while the yeast adds depth of flavor. The step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow, and the use of all purpose flour guarantees a perfect result every time. Trust in the simplicity and reliability of this recipe, and you'll be rewarded with a beautiful loaf of vegan challah bread that's perfect for any occasion.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this vegan challah bread recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Let's discuss any tips, variations, or questions you may have about making this delicious egg-free version of the classic Jewish braided bread.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of oil instead of coconut oil?

Yes, you can substitute coconut oil with other plant-based oils such as olive oil or vegetable oil. Just make sure to use a neutral-flavored oil to avoid altering the taste of the challah bread.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it will result in a denser and heartier challah bread. You may need to adjust the liquid content slightly as whole wheat flour tends to absorb more moisture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I freeze the challah bread?

Yes, you can freeze the challah bread. Once it has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. To thaw, leave it at room temperature or reheat it in the oven.

How can I store the leftover challah bread?

To store leftover challah bread, wrap it in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is the best option.