Chocolate Crunch Roll

1 tbsp dry yeast (or 30 grams fresh yeast in 1/4 cup water)

1 kg (kilo) flour

3/4 cups sugar

2 cups warm water

150 grams marg softened

1 tsp salt

2 eggs

Fill with tons of chocolate spread!!

Mix all ingred and let sit until risen

Separate into 4 balls and leave in refrigerator overnite (covered in cling wrap)

In the morning, roll each ball as thin as possible (a bit less than 1/2 cm) in a square preferably. Spread choc spread leaving a thin line around the dough not covered so it will stick when rolling. Roll it like jelly roll (start on one end and roll tightly). Cut roll in half lengthwise leaving a small section attached on one end with open side facing up. You'll be able to see the choc spread. DON'T PANIC! Its supposed to look like that! Twist the two pieces together (like a screw/braid). Do the same for the other 3 balls of dough. Bake in preheated oven (180 degrees C or 350 F) until they've turned a bit brown & crispy around 40-45 minutes. Let cool a bit and serve. Store remainder in cling wrap. I have frozen these with much success. You can warm it up or just defrost.

Challah Recipe

2 kg flour (15-16 cups)

6 cups warm water

3 tbsp yeast

3 tbsp salt

1 cup sugar (can be less)

1 cup oil

Put flour in a large bowl. Make a well as seen in the picture below.

Add in all ingredients except for the salt. Sprinkle the salt on the outer rim of the "well". 

Knead the dough until all ingredients are well incorporated. 

Cover the dough with plastic bag or damp towel. Let it rise for about 45 minutes to one hour. It should be doubled in size. Take off a piece of the bread with the blessing. 

Punch down the dough. Shape the Challahs and let it rise again, covered with a plastic bag for 30 minutes to one hour. Egg-wash the loaves and sprinkle sesame or poppy seed (optional).

Bake in oven for 35-45 minutes (depending on the size) at 350 F (180 C). Let the Challahs cool on baking rack. 

A Love of Reading

My kids love reading. And I find that just by visiting the bookstore or library, a world of knowledge and curiosity comes alive.

Apple & Almond Butter

I've been looking recently for an energizing snack. My family has a funny favorite of peanut butter and apple slices. I haven't found any organic, sugar free peanut butter so I began to look into other options. I recently happened upon this brand and found a new best friend.

 

Here we go...

So, everyone tells me to take note... ok I'm a bit rusty at this, but I'll do my best. Hopefully something worthwhile will come out of me putting "pen to paper".