Delectable Honey Challah Rolls for Your Next Sweet Craving
Greetings, my fellow foodies! Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Ehud and I am an Israeli chef. Today, I am excited to share with you a recipe that is close to my heart – Honey Challah Rolls. This recipe holds a special place in the Jewish community and is typically baked for Rosh Hashanah or the Jewish New Year. However, this delicious treat should not be limited to only one time of the year.
I have been perfecting this recipe for years, using only the freshest ingredients to achieve that perfect texture and flavor. The aroma of fresh bread permeating through my kitchen as these honey challah rolls bake is something that brings warmth to my soul.
I believe that making bread is a true art form that has been passed down through generations of bakers and homemakers. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of knowing you have created something from scratch that your loved ones can enjoy.
These honey challah rolls are soft but slightly chewy on the inside and crispy on the outside with a sweet essence of honey. The sesame seed topping gives it a nuttiness which perfectly balances out the sweetness.
In this article, I will guide you step by step on how to make this fantastic and versatile recipe. Whether you are looking for something new to add to your Rosh Hashanah feast or searching for a delicious addition to your dinner table, these Honey Challah Rolls will not disappoint.
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a bread lover? Do you crave something sweet and fluffy that will melt in your mouth with each bite? Then look no further, because this honey challah rolls recipe is the one for you.
These rolls are made with a perfect blend of bread flour, active dry yeast, honey, eggs, and salt to create the best challah bread that you’ve ever tasted. Plus, the sprinkling of sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch to each bite.
But why should you love this recipe above all others? Let me tell you.
Firstly, it’s incredibly versatile. Need pull-apart dinner rolls for Thanksgiving? Done. Want mini-challah to serve with brunch or desserts? No problem. How about a round apple honey challah for Rosh Hashanah – we got you covered! This recipe is flexible enough to mold into any shape and size that you desire.
Secondly, it’s easy! You don’t need baking experience to create these gorgeous honey challah rolls since the instructions are simple yet detailed. There won’t be any need to stress out about making the perfect dough because the active dry yeast will do most of the work. All you have to do is follow instructions 1-2-3 and voila! Perfect bread made from scratch.
Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly – it’s delicious! The soft yet chewy texture of this bread will make every meal feel like a feast. You can slather them with honey butter or use them as sandwich buns for your breakfast BLT sandwiches.
So if you’re looking to impress your family or guests with fresh, homemade bakery-style rolls, this honey challah rolls recipe should definitely be on your list of go-to recipes. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and mouthwatering taste, it’s no wonder that this recipe is a must-have in every home kitchen.
Ingredient List
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these delectable honey challah rolls:
For the yeast mixture:
- 2 packages (or 4 1/2 teaspoons) active dry yeast*
- 1 tablespoon sugar*
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F)*
For the dough:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 3/4 cup honey*
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs, plus one for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons sesame seeds
- Additional flour (for kneading)
Ingredient Notes:
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Active dry yeast: Make sure your yeast is fresh and has not expired. If using rapid-rise yeast, keep in mind that it will rise faster than active dry yeast.
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Sugar: The small amount of sugar in this recipe helps activate the yeast mixture.
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Warm water: The temperature of the water is important. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast. If it’s too cold, the yeast won’t activate. Aim for a temperature of around 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Honey: Look for a good-quality honey, which will provide sweetness and flavor.
These ingredients will help you create perfect honey challah rolls that are full of flavor and texture. Now let’s get into how to work with them!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring our Honey Challah Rolls to life! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make them.
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Activate the yeast by adding 2 packages of active dry yeast to 1/2 cup of warm water (110 degrees) and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a bowl. Stir well, and let sit until it becomes foamy or frothy as this will indicate that the yeast is active.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together 4 cups of bread flour, 1/2 cup of honey, 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt. Add the activated yeast mixture into this bowl and stir until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10-12 minutes, adding more flour if needed until you get a smooth and elastic dough. Once done, place it in an oiled bowl and cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap before putting it in a warm area for about an hour so that it can rise and double in size.
Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Punch down the dough and divide it into equal parts. Shape each part into balls (about 1/4 cup) then arrange them on prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between each roll so they have room to expand. Brush some beaten egg wash on top of each roll then sprinkle sesame seeds on them. Allow them to rise once again for around 20-30 minutes, covered with a damp towel.
Step 5: Bake Them!
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for around 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. When ready, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool down for about 5 minutes before serving.
And voila! That’s how you make delicious Honey Challah Rolls from scratch!
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about cooking is that you can always switch up ingredients and experiment with different variations to make the recipe your own. Here are some of my favorite substitutions and variations for this Honey Challah Rolls recipe:
– Instead of sesame seeds, try topping the rolls with poppy seeds or flaky salt for a different flavor and texture.
– Don’t have honey? Substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.
– For a vegan version of this recipe, use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk and replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce.
– Want to add some extra flavor to your rolls? Consider mixing in some diced rosemary and shallots to the dough before shaping your rolls. This will give the bread a savory twist that pairs wonderfully with honey butter.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try making an apple honey challah by adding grated apple and cinnamon to the dough mixture. Fresh apples add natural sweetness, while cinnamon provides a gentle warmth and depth that complement the honey nicely.
– Looking to impress your guests during Rosh Hashanah? Make mini challah rolls in the shape of round apples. Pull apart the sections to reveal soft, fluffy interiors, which can be used as bases for other desserts such as mini pies or apple crumbles.
Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy this recipe – feel free to get experimental with different flavors and toppings. The most important thing is that you have fun in the kitchen and create something delicious!
Serving and Pairing
These honey challah rolls are a treat to the senses, with their golden-hued crust, aroma of fresh bread and honey, and moist, fluffy texture. They make an excellent addition to any meal, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
For a sweet breakfast or brunch treat, serve the rolls with a dollop of butter or jam. You could also take them up a notch by adding apple slices and drizzling them with more honey. For a savory option, try topping them with cream cheese and lox, tomato and mozzarella, or even avocado and bacon.
Honey challah rolls are an excellent accompaniment to soups, salads, and sandwiches. Try serving them alongside a hearty bowl of chicken noodle or tomato soup for an unbeatable comfort food combination. Or pair them with your favorite sandwich fillings for a satisfyingly wholesome meal.
These rolls also make fantastic appetizers or party snacks. Pull apart the soft buns and stuff them with your favorite dips like hummus, guacamole or bruschetta toppings, for a sophisticated start to any gathering.
For dinners, honey challah rolls can be served instead of standard dinner rolls to add some extra pizzazz on the table setting. Pair them with rich stews like beef bourguignon or chicken fricassee for an indulgent feast.
Regardless of how you choose to serve these honey challah rolls, rest assured they will elevate any meal with their slight sweetness and remarkable texture.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to preparing food, efficiency is key. Luckily, this Honey Challah Rolls recipe offers a few options for making ahead, storing and reheating.
Firstly, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in your fridge until ready to bake. Just follow the recipe instructions up until the shaping part and then cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge until you are ready to bake. This way, you can save time on the day of your event or meal and have fresh, hot rolls without any prep work.
In addition, you can also prepare these rolls in advance by baking them completely and then storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can reheat the rolls in the oven by placing them on a baking sheet and covering with aluminum foil. Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until they’re heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
If you have leftover rolls after your meal or event, don’t worry! They still make great snacks or sides. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge for up to three days. The rolls are also freezer-friendly! Just store them in a sealable plastic bag and freeze for up to two months.
When you’re ready to eat the frozen rolls, remove them from the freezer and leave them out at room temperature for about 2 hours before reheating in the oven or microwave.
With these tips, you can enjoy these delicious Honey Challah Rolls anytime, anywhere!
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the best results and bring out the full flavor of these Honey Challah Rolls, keep in mind these tips and tricks.
Firstly, make sure that you’re using high-quality ingredients like fresh active dry yeast, bread flour, and honey. Using fresh ingredients ensures that your Honey Challah Rolls will be flavorful and delicious.
Secondly, knead your dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This will ensure that your rolls will have a fluffy and soft texture.
Thirdly, let the dough rise in a warm place. This step is crucial to allow the dough to develop its texture, flavor, and aroma. If the temperature is too cold or too hot, the dough won’t rise correctly.
Fourthly, brush your rolls with an egg wash or olive oil to create a beautiful golden brown crust once they’re baked.
Fifthly, sprinkle sesame seeds on top of your Honey Challah Rolls before baking them to add extra flavor and crunch.
Sixthly, make sure that you are precise when measuring ingredients since baking is more about science than art.
Seventhly, monitor your oven’s temperature as it can fluctuate a lot during baking time, which might affect your recipes’ result.
Lastly, let your Honey Challah Rolls cool down before slicing them. This way, the bread cools uniformly inside beforehand, making it easier to slice without compressing or crushing it.
Follow these tips for perfect results every time you bake Honey Challah Rolls!
FAQ
Now that we’ve gone through the ingredient list, how-to instructions, and helpful tips for perfect results, it’s time to tackle some frequently asked questions about this recipe. Here are some answers to those questions that will provide you with more insight into making the most mouth-watering honey challah rolls.
What makes challah bread different from regular bread?
Two widely known breads: challah and brioche are made with similar ingredients but do differ in one significant way. Challah’s ingredients are dairy-free, while brioche includes butter. Despite this one difference, the taste of the two breads is quite similar.
Can I substitute honey for sugar in challah?
When it comes to making challah, some may wonder if honey is a mandatory ingredient. However, it is not essential. If you prefer to use sugar as a substitute for sweetness, that is perfectly acceptable. Keep in mind that honey contains water, comprising 20% of its components. If replacing honey with sugar, it is important to add an appropriate amount of water to the recipe.
Does challah contain honey?
The foundation of challah bread has remained consistent over time. It is a delectable bread that is slightly sweet and created by combining flour, eggs, oil, yeast, and honey. Traditional challah bread can be customized with variations like toppings of poppy or sesame seeds or by adding golden raisins. Challah bread is considered among the simplest breads to make at home, and its versatility allows home chefs to experiment with shapes, stuffings, and swirls.
How can I make my challah more moist?
To ensure the flour gets fully integrated into the dough, keep folding it in on itself. In case the dough appears too brittle or parched, adding a dab of oil can remarkably restore its flexibility and moisture content. Applying cooking spray on the working area can be handy too.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the honey challah rolls recipe is a must-try for all bread lovers! With its sweet, yet savory flavor and perfect texture, this recipe is sure to impress your family and guests. The dough is easy to work with and the instructions are simple to follow, making it an ideal project for novice bakers. Plus, this recipe can be customized with a variety of additions or substitutions to fit your specific taste preferences.
So, next time you’re in the mood for some freshly baked bread, give this honey challah rolls recipe a try! Whether you’re celebrating a Jewish holiday such as Rosh Hashanah or just want to impress your friends with your baking skills, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Trust me, once you try these rolls fresh out of the oven with a dollop of honey butter, you’ll be hooked!
Honey Challah Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 1/2-4 cups bread flour
- 2 packages active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup hot water (120 to 130 degrees)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons oil
- sesame seeds
Instructions
- Note: You can save a lot of time here if you have a bread machine that has a manual setting that allows the bread machine to stop after the mixing and first rising and not go into a Bake cycle.
- Many of the better machines have that option specifically so you can make rolls instead of a whole bread loaf.
- If so add the above ingredients to your bread machine, remembering to separate one egg and reserve it's egg white for later as explained in step 3.
- Set the bread machine to the manual cycle so it will mix but not bake.
- Then after the bread machine is done follow the recipe from step 5 on.
- In electric mixer, combine 3 1/2 cups flour, yeast, and salt, blending well.
- Separate one egg; set white aside.
- Add yolk and remaining egg, hot water, honey, and oil to flour mixture.
- Mix vigorously, then knead with dough hook for about 6 minutes, adding flour if sticky, until smooth and elastic.
- Or turn out onto floured board and knead about 10 minutes.
- Place in greased bowl, turning to grease top.
- Cover with plastic wrap and damp towel.
- Let rise in warm place about 30 minutes.
- Punch down; let rest 5 minutes.
- Divide evenly; shape into 16 balls.
- Arrange in greased 9-inch layer cake pan, working from outside in, placing 10 around perimeter, then 5, and 1 in center.
- Lightly beat reserved egg white and brush over rolls.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Cover and let rise until doubled, about 15 minutes.
- Bake at 350 degrees about 22 minutes, until golden brown.
- Serve warm.