Challah

ingredients

1
In a large bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the water. Let stand for about 5 minutes to dissolve the yeast. Stir in the salt, sugar, oil and 4 eggs until well blended.Gradually mix in the flour.
2
When the dough becomes too stiff to stir, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for 8 to 10 minutes. Place dough underneath the bowl to rise until double.
3
Punch down the dough, and divide into 6 or 8 even pieces depending on what shape you want.
4
Roll the pieces into ropes. Braid into two loaves, or one really big 6 piece braid - but only if your oven is large enough. Or, you can make the spiral shape challahs out of each rope.
5
Tuck the ends under, and place on a baking sheet to rise until your finger leaves a small dent when you gently poke the bread.
6
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
7
Whisk together the remaining egg, water and vanilla sugar. Brush over the tops of the loaves.
8
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top.
9
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes in the preheated oven, until the bread is deep golden brown.