Favorite Challah- Fast Rise-Kitchenaid

Step 1: In the kitchenaid bowl, place yeast, 3/4 cup flour, 2 Tb sugar and 3/4 cup warm water. Mix thouroughly. Allow to sit for approx 15 minutes until puffy.

Step 2: Next, using the dough hook, add slowly lightly beaten eggs, sugar, salt, honey, oil and the remaining flour. Mix until a soft dough is formed which is smooth and elastic. Do not over-knead; you want a soft dough, even on the slightly sticky side is ok.

Step 3: Remove dough ball and place into a well-oiled bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled and very light. Can take up to 2 hours, or more.; usually less.

Step 4: Alternatively, you can put the dough in the refrigerator either early in the day or the night before. This rise will take much longer, but its often a convenient step if you want to start your bread before work or the night before.

Step 5: After dough is risen, divide into 2 portions. ( you can also make one large loaf instead). Divide each portion into 3 strands and braid. Prepare baking sheets with parchment or silpat sheet. Place each braided loaf onto the sheet. I can usually fit both loaves onto one sheet. Cover with plastic wrap that has been sprayed with non-stick spray so that it doesn't stick. Allow the loaves to rise until doubled or tripled in size ( can take up to 1 1/2 hours)

Step 6: Approx 30 minutes before baking, preheat oven to 350F.

Step 7: Beat remaining egg yolk and brush onto braids.

Step 8: Bake 20-30 minutes for 2 loaves. Bake 30-40 for 1 large loaf. The bread should be browned and hollow.