Making vegan challah bread at home without eggs or honey is possible and can be just as delicious and satisfying as traditional challah. Here's a simple recipe to guide you through the process:
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (around 110°F or 45°C)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave syrup (as a honey substitute)
- 1 tsp salt
- Non-dairy milk (e.g., almond milk or soy milk) for brushing
Optional toppings:
- Sesame seeds or poppy seeds
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and maple syrup (or agave syrup). Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
Add the vegetable oil and salt to the yeast mixture and mix well.
Gradually add the flour to the liquid mixture, kneading the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or knead it by hand on a lightly floured surface.
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal parts and braid them into a challah shape. You can make a traditional three-strand braid or try a more intricate six-strand braid.
Place the braided dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it again with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Brush the risen dough with non-dairy milk to give it a shiny appearance. Optionally, you can sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top.
Bake the vegan challah bread in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Once baked, remove the challah from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Now you have a delightful vegan challah bread that is free from eggs and honey. Enjoy it on its own, with your favorite spreads, or use it to make delicious vegan sandwiches or French toast!