Can you make this cinnamon sugar challah gluten-free?

Yes, you can make cinnamon sugar challah gluten-free. Make sure you're using an all-purpose gluten-free blend for best results.

Can I freeze challah bread?

Yes! Challah freezes beautifully. Slice the loaf before placing in a freezer-safe bag and popping it into the freezer. That way, you can pull out a slice to toast whenever the fancy strikes.

What's the difference between challah and zopf?

Challah is a traditional Jewish bread that's sweet and often topped with seeds, while Zopf is a Swiss bread that's rich and buttery. Both are braided, but the main difference is that Challah is sweet, while Zopf is unsweetened and has a denser texture.

Cinnamon Challah

Name: Cinnamon Sugar Challah Bread
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 220 min
Ingredients: 1 cup water (+ 3 tablespoons); 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (plus ½ cup divided); 2½ teaspoons dry active yeast; ¼ cup refined coconut oil (plus 2 tablespoons); 4 cups all purpose flour (divided); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons salt; ⅛ teaspoon ground turmeric; 2 tablespoons agave nectar; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (or poppy seeds); 4 tablespoons butter ((we used vegan butter) room temperature); ⅓ cup packed brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cinnamon

Cinnamon challah is a delightful twist on a classic bread, bringing together the soft, pillowy texture of traditional challah with the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. The subtle sweetness and beautiful braided shape make it perfect for special occasions or just to brighten up your weekend.

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to make at home. With a few basic ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a homemade bread that’s both impressive and delicious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own, paired with vegan butter or homemade strawberry jam, or even turned into vegan French toast.

Once you try this cinnamon challah, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again! For even more bread recipes and favorite brands, make sure to check out our vegan bread guide!

Table of Contents

Why This Cinnamon Challah Recipe is So Awesome

This sweetly spiced challah recipe stands out because it combines a soft, fluffy texture with the irresistible flavor of cinnamon. It’s perfect for any meal, whether you’re starting your day or finishing it with a sweet treat. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try and how it can become a new favorite baked good in your kitchen:

Irresistible Flavor. Cinnamon challah combines the soft, fluffy texture of traditional challah with the warm, sweet spice of cinnamon, making every bite a cozy delight.
Perfect for Any Occasion. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, cinnamon challah is versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.
Beautiful Presentation. With its braided shape and cinnamon swirl, this challah looks stunning on any table, adding a special touch to your meal.
Great for Sharing. Cinnamon challah is perfect for gatherings, as it’s easy to tear and share with family and friends.
Delicious Leftovers. If you have any leftovers, cinnamon challah makes fantastic French toast or bread pudding, giving you even more ways to enjoy it!

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Understanding the key ingredients for homemade vegan challah is essential for baking a delicious loaf. We’ll break down each ingredient’s role and offer easy substitutions if you’re missing something. With these tips, you’ll be able to adapt the recipe to fit your pantry staples and preferences!

Ingredients for cinnamon challah, with labels.

All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure and foundation for the challah, giving it a soft yet sturdy texture. You can use bread flour for a chewier texture or whole wheat flour for a heartier, more nutritious version. If using whole wheat, consider mixing it with all-purpose flour to maintain the softness.
Active Dry Yeast: Essential for making the dough rise, giving the challah its light and fluffy texture. Substitutions: Instant yeast can be used in place of active dry yeast. Just use a slightly smaller amount, and you can skip the proofing step (mixing with warm water and sugar to activate).
Sugar: Feeds the yeast, helping the dough rise, and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the cinnamon. Feel free to use vegan honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness, or coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Coconut Oil: Adds moisture and richness to the dough, lending the challah a soft texture. Swap coconut oil with vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer a slightly different flavor.
Turmeric: Gives the challah a beautiful golden color, enhancing its visual appeal without affecting the flavor. Substitutions: If you don’t have turmeric, you can skip it or use a small pinch of saffron or a bit more cinnamon for a slightly different hue.
Cinnamon: The star of this recipe! This spice provides that warm, sweet-spicy flavor that makes this challah so special. Choose other warm spices such as nutmeg, cardamom, or cloves for a unique twist on the classic cinnamon flavor.
Sesame Seeds: Add a nutty flavor and a slight crunch, complementing the soft texture of the challah. Substitutions include poppy seeds, sunflower seeds, or skip the seeds altogether if you prefer a plain top.

How to Make Cinnamon Swirl Challah

Making spiced challah at home is easier than you might think and incredibly rewarding. We’ll guide you through each step, from preparing the dough to achieving the perfect braid. Follow these straightforward instructions to bake a delectable, sweet bread that’s sure to impress!

Yeast and water mixed together in a bowl.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast – Warm the water in the microwave for about 1 minute until it’s warm but not hot (105–110°F if using a thermometer).

Stir in 1 teaspoon of sugar, sprinkle the yeast over it, and let it sit for 7 minutes to activate.

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients – Melt the coconut oil in the microwave for about 30 seconds until it’s liquid. Set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the Dough – In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, the remaining ½ cup of sugar, baking powder, salt, and turmeric. Stir in the yeast mixture and melted coconut oil. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour.

Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise – Grease a large bowl, place the dough inside, and cover it with a damp towel.

Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1½ hours until it doubles in size.

Ingredients for making a sweet cinnamon filling for vegan challah.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling – Place the butter (we used dairy-free), brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl.

A bowl of sweet filling for cinnamon challah with a spoon.

Mix until well combined.

An oval-shaped piece of dough cut into three pieces.

Step 6: Shape the Dough – After the dough has risen, divide it into three equal parts.

Roll each piece into a flat rectangle.

Three portions of cinnamon challah being spread with filling.

Spread the cinnamon mixture evenly over each, then roll them up into long strands.

Cinnamon challah dough divided into 3 portions with filling spread.

Step 7: Braid the three strands together, tucking the ends under to seal.

A braided loaf of vegan cinnamon challah on a baking sheet.

Step 8: Final Rise and Bake – Place the braided loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise for another 50 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

A braided loaf of vegan cinnamon challah being brushed with agave.

Once risen, brush the loaf with agave and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.

A hand pulling a piece off of a loaf of cinnamon challah.

Let it cool before serving!

Serving Tips and Suggestions for Cinnamon Challah Bread

Making challah is as fun as it is delicious, and a few tips can take your loaf to the next level. These suggestions will help you get the most out of your homemade cinnamon challah. Here are some simple ways to make your braided creation truly unforgettable!

Serve Warm with Butter – Enjoy your cinnamon challah fresh out of the oven with a generous spread of vegan butter. The warmth melts the butter into the soft bread, making each bite even more indulgent.
Pair with Honey or Jam – Drizzle vegan honey or spread your favorite chia jam on a slice of cinnamon challah bread for a sweet and flavorful treat. The added sweetness complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Make French Toast – Turn your day-old challah into a decadent breakfast by making vegan French toast. The rich bread soaks up the custard mixture beautifully, resulting in a deliciously crispy and soft dish.
Use for Bread Pudding – Transform any leftover challah into a comforting bread pudding. The cinnamon flavor adds a cozy twist to this classic dessert. This coconut raisin rum pudding might be a unique base for this recipe!
Enjoy with Coffee or Tea – This cinnamon sugar challah pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee (with a splash of vegan coffee creamer) or tea. The flavors complement each other, making for a perfect afternoon snack.
Top with Whipped Cream and Berries – For a more indulgent treat, top slices of challah with vegan whipped cream and fresh berries. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy this delicious bread.