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Pumpkin Challah

Warm and Fluffy Pumpkin Challah for Cozy Fall Mornings

This Pumpkin Challah boasts a stunning golden color and delightful spices, perfect for cozy fall gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Rising Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Baking
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 5 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour Consider King Arthur Unbleached for optimal results.
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Can be replaced with brown sugar for deeper flavor.
  • 1 packet Instant Yeast Active dry yeast can be substituted but requires proofing.
  • 1 teaspoon Table Salt Sea salt is a possible alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Nutmeg may be swapped for a different spice note.
  • 1 cup Water (Lukewarm) Milk can be used for a richer texture.
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Purée Canned pumpkin is a convenient option.
  • 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil Melted butter can be used for added flavor.
  • 1 large Egg A flax egg can substitute for a vegan option.
For the Egg Wash
  • 1 large Egg Beaten with water for a glossy crust.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer
  • Dough Hook
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • wire rack
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Challah
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cinnamon.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix lukewarm water, pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, and egg until smooth.
  3. Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry, mixing for about 1 minute.
  4. Once mixed, stir gently until a shaggy dough forms.
  5. Knead the dough for about 6 minutes with a mixer or 10 minutes by hand until elastic.
  6. Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for about 2 hours until doubled.
  7. Gently deflate the dough and divide into two pieces, then shape each into logs.
  8. Coil the logs into a spiral shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
  9. Cover and let rise for another hour until puffy.
  10. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare egg wash and brush on loaves.
  11. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
  12. Remove from oven, cool on a wire rack completely before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 8mg

Notes

For best results, ensure ingredients are at room temperature. Double egg wash for a golden crust.

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