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Pumpkin Challah

Pumpkin Challah: Soft and Sweet Fall Bread to Enjoy

This Pumpkin Challah is a must-try fall recipe that blends warm spices and a tender texture, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Baking
Cuisine: Jewish
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 4 cups King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour substitute with bread flour for chewier texture
  • 0.25 cups Granulated Sugar brown sugar can add deeper flavor
  • 2.25 teaspoons Instant Yeast active dry yeast can be used if proofed first
  • 1 teaspoon Table Salt kosher salt can work as a substitute in adjusted amounts
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon pumpkin pie spice can replace for added flavor
  • 1 cup Water (Lukewarm) ensure it’s warm, not hot
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Purée choose homemade or canned, pure pumpkin only
  • 0.25 cups Vegetable Oil melted butter can be a richer alternative
  • 1 large Egg replace with flax egg for vegan version
For the Egg Wash
  • 1 large Beaten Egg with Water milk can be an alternative for brushing

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking Sheet
  • wire cooling rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Challah
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, mix lukewarm water, pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, and egg. Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about 2 hours until doubled.
  3. Gently deflate the risen dough, divide into three pieces, roll each into a rectangle, then tightly roll them into logs. Coil the logs around each other to form a braided loaf and transfer to a baking sheet for further rising.
  4. Cover the braided loaf with a towel and allow it to rise for approximately 1 hour until noticeably swollen and airy.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the loaf with egg wash and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F.
  6. Remove from oven and transfer to a wire cooling rack. Allow to cool for about 30 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 4gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Enjoy creating your own Pumpkin Challah, and savor the warmth it brings to your home!

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