Welcome to our detailed guide on how to bake an exquisite Apple-Filled Star Challah Bread. Whether you're celebrating Rosh Hashanah or simply want to indulge in some sweet, apple-laden bread, this recipe is sure to impress. Let's dive into the steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, let’s ensure we have everything we need. Here’s what you’ll require:
- 4 cups of bread flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1⁄3 cup of sugar
- 1 packet of active dry yeast (2 1⁄4 teaspoons)
- 1 cup of warm water (110°F or 45°C)
- 1⁄4 cup of vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1⁄2 cup of apple sauce
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1⁄4 cup of honey or maple syrup
Step 2: Preparing the Dough
To start, mix the warm water, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar in a small bowl. Let this sit until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active:
- Activate yeast: Mix 1 cup warm water with yeast and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let sit until frothy.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Form dough: Add the yeast mixture, eggs, oil, apple sauce, and lemon zest to the dry mixture. Stir to form a soft dough.
- Knead: On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
Step 3: Making the Apple Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare your apple filling:
- Slice apples thinly.
- Combine sliced apples with cinnamon and honey or maple syrup.
Step 4: Assembling the Bread
Now comes the fun part - assembling the challah with the apple filling:
- Divide Dough: After the dough has risen, divide it into 4 equal parts.
- Form Into Ropes: Roll each part into a long rope about 2 feet in length.
- Create the Star: Twist two ropes together and form a circle, pinching the ends to seal. Repeat with the remaining two ropes, then layer one circle on top of the other.
- Filling: Fill the center with apple slices, ensuring to leave space for expansion during baking.
- Egg Wash: Brush the bread with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with a tablespoon of water) for a golden finish.
Step 5: Baking and Finishing Touches
Your star-shaped challah is now ready for the oven:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Place the challah on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before cutting into it to preserve its shape.
📘 Note: Ensure that the dough has risen adequately to achieve the desired texture.
🔧 Note: If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour during kneading.
🌍 Note: This bread freezes well, so consider making an extra loaf for future enjoyment.
In closing, crafting an Apple-Filled Star Challah Bread not only fills your home with delightful aromas but also brings a touch of festivity and tradition to your table. The combination of the tender, sweet challah dough with the spiced apple filling creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Remember, baking is both an art and a science, so embrace the process, learn from each attempt, and enjoy every slice of your homemade challah.
Can I use different fruits for the filling?
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Yes, you can! Try pears, raisins, or even dried fruits like apricots for a different flavor profile.
How long can I store the baked challah?
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Challah can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing it.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
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This could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh and the water temperature is correct, or try proofing the yeast first.
