Here’s a soft, fluffy, and golden gluten-free challah bread recipe—perfect for Shabbat, holidays, or just enjoying as a beautiful braided loaf. This version uses simple ingredients and comes out tender with that classic slightly sweet taste.
🌾 Gluten-Free Challah Bread Recipe
Yield: 1 large braided loaf
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1.5 hours
Bake Time: 35 minutes
🧂 Ingredients:
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2¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
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2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
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¾ cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
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3 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or sunflower)
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3 large eggs, room temperature
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2½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (with xanthan gum)
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½ cup tapioca starch (adds chew)
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1 tsp salt
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1 tsp apple cider vinegar
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1 egg + 1 tsp water (for egg wash)
🥣 Instructions:
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Activate the yeast:
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In a bowl, mix warm water, honey, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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Mix wet ingredients:
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In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the yeast mixture with eggs, oil, and vinegar.
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Add dry ingredients:
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Add GF all-purpose flour, tapioca starch, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms. It should resemble a thick cake batter, not typical bread dough.
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First rise:
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Cover bowl with plastic wrap or a towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour until puffy.
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Shape the dough:
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Lightly oil your hands and divide the dough into 3 portions. Roll each into a rope (use oiled parchment or wet hands to help). Braid gently and place on a parchment-lined baking tray. Tuck ends under.
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Second rise:
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Let the shaped loaf rise uncovered for another 30 minutes.
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Egg wash & bake:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush with egg wash and bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
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Cool:
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Let cool at least 30 minutes before slicing.
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🍯 Tips:
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Braiding tip: If braiding is too tricky, you can also place the dough in a greased loaf pan and bake as a traditional loaf.
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Flour note: Use a trusted GF all-purpose blend like King Arthur, Cup4Cup, or Bob’s Red Mill 1:1. Make sure it has xanthan gum or add 1 tsp if not.
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Add-ins: Raisins or poppy seeds can be kneaded in for traditional variations.
