Short Summary
Main recommendation: Shape challah into individual rolls, using the shmin (figure-eight) shape as the featured method, since small rolls bake through quickly and kids especially enjoy having their own roll. The speaker demonstrates two similar techniques for the shmin, then notes that rolls of matching size should go on the same sheet so they bake evenly. The video then moves on to a rose-shaped roll.
Key Points
- The video is Part 8 of a challah workshop, focused on shaping individual rolls.
- The featured shape is the shmin, named for the Hebrew word for "eighth" because it resembles a figure eight.
- Two slightly different methods for forming the shmin are shown; both produce similar results.
- Small rolls bake through easily, which the speaker cites as a key advantage.
- Kids often prefer having their own roll to a slice of bread, and they can decorate their rolls with sprinkles or chocolate.
- A rose-shaped roll is previewed as the next shape.
Details Worth Noting
- Concrete instructions:
- Method one: Start with a lengthwise (long-way) piece of dough, form a six shape and tuck it under. Take the top end, bring it under and over, then create the loop on the right side to form the eight. Pass the end under and through the loop to finish the figure eight.
- Method two: Start horizontally rather than vertically, create the loop and leave it on top, then thread the string through it. Make the cross, then bring the end around the top to complete the eight.
- Place rolls of similar size on the same baking sheet so they bake evenly.
- Brush the rolls with egg wash, then cover with nylon or plastic wrap and let them rest before baking.
- Decorate with sprinkles, chocolate, or other toppings if desired, especially for kids.
- The speaker notes that the two methods differ mainly in starting direction and where the loop is left, but the final shape is nearly identical.
- The speaker describes the rolls as easy to make and quick to bake.
Bottom Line
Individual challah rolls, especially the shmin, are a practical and appealing way to serve challah, particularly for children.





