Felice, I am so glad you clarified. I was just thinking about my response but you have done all the work for me, and accurately so. I'd just like to add a couple of thoughts. The issue with the confectioners sugar has to do with the additon of cornstarch. However, depending whether one is of Ashkenazic or Spehardic lineage, it may be a non-issue as corn, for some can be included, especially Jews who are live in or emigrated from countries where maize in a mainstay in the diet. A friend of mine follows the strictest of rules during Pesach, including nothing with corn syrup (e.g. sodas), as well as no extracts that contain alcohol. The reason for alcohol-free extracts originates with questionability of the grain from which the alcohol is derived. Any one of the main prohibited grains during Passover would be excluded as it is not considered "Pesedich"; otherwise if one had knowledge of the origin of the alcohol grain, it would likely then be subject to the traditions of their lineage. Not to complicate this further...
That said, there previously was a fabulous bakery in Dallas that used KAF for their challah. I didn't bother making my own because their challah was so spectacular that it was worth buying and using it not only for Shabbat but also for recipes calling for stale bread. After countless years in business, they closed up shop to the retail sector. I was devastated because I used their, and only their, challah for the Cinnamon Bread Pudding on p. 292 of KA's 200th Anniversary cookbook - I even noted it in my cookbook so when it is eventually passed on to my heirs that they would know exactly what made it extra special. You can bet I am excited to try this recipe in hopes that is comes closer to their challah recipe than anything I've been able to replicate.
Andrea, we hope the recipe is everything you are hoping for. Thanks for mentioning about writing the specifics of what makes your recipe 'special' for your future generations. Sadly, we hear everyday from folks looking for a special recipe or ingredient that Mom or Gramma used to use but never shared, so they are left searching for a piece of their heritage. PLEASE folks, share those secrets now with your loved ones so they are not lost! ~MaryJane
January 27, 2009 at 12:59am