Bread Machine Challah

Step 1

Have liquid ingredients at 80ºF and all others at room temperature. Place ingredients in pan in the order suggested by manufacturer. Select dough/manual cycle (see note below). Do not use the delay timer. Check dough consistency after 5 minutes of kneading. The dough should be in a soft, tacky ball. If it is dry and stiff, add water, 1/2 to 1 tablespoon at a time. If it is too wet and sticky, add 1 tablespoon of flour at a time. At end of cycle, continue with next step.

Step 2

Turn dough onto lightly floured surface; punch down to remove air bubbles. Roll or pat into a 12×6-inch rectangle. Cut into two 3×12-inch strips. Twist the strips together. Place in a 9×5-inch greased bread pan or on a greased cookie sheet. Cover; let rise until indentation remains after touching.

Step 3

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Step 4

For a shiny crust, brush loaf with egg wash. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from pan; cool on wire rack.