Bread Machine Challah for Shabbat and Festivals

Challah is a delicious and versatile bread that can be served with a variety of meals.

This recipe is quick and easy to make, and the bread machine does most of the work for you.

This recipe uses margarine instead of traditional butter, and some people may prefer the taste of butter.

Challah bread is not particularly healthy, but it is a traditional Jewish bread that is enjoyed on special occasions like Shabbat and holidays.

	1 cup warm water
	1 1/2 teaspoons salt
	2 tablespoons white sugar
	1/4 cup pareve margarine
	1 egg
	3 cups bread flour
	2 1/4 teaspoons bread machine yeast
	1 egg
	1 tablespoon water
	1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract

1.	Place the water, salt, sugar, margarine, egg, bread flour, and yeast in the bread machine as recommended by the manufacturer. Select the dough cycle, and press Start.
2.	After the dough cycle has finished, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 2 minutes.
3.	Divide the dough into three portions and shape each one into a rope. Pinch the ropes together at one end and braid them, then pinch them at the other end and tuck it under.
4.	Place the braided loaf on a greased baking sheet and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, about 30 minutes.
5.	Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
6.	Beat the egg with water and vanilla extract in a small bowl and brush the egg mixture over the bread.
7.	Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the bread is golden brown. Serve warm or cold.
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