Record-Breaking 35-ft Challah Baked for Shabbat of Love
New York City’s Jewish organizations have baked a record-breaking 35-foot challah loaf during a nationwide Shabbat observance. This culinary feat, aiming to break the Guinness World Record, serves as a symbol of unity, tradition, and community spirit.
By Beth Snider · January 26, 2024
Several Jewish organizations in New York City have come together to bake a supersized challah loaf, measuring an impressive 35 feet and 2 inches. This enormous creation, crafted as part of a nationwide Shabbat observance is now in the running to break the current Guinness World Record for the longest challah.
The Jewish Federations of North America and the Orthodox Union joined forces with Strauss Bakery in Brooklyn to undertake this culinary feat. The bakery produced over 200 pounds of dough, which was expertly braided and transported via truck to a kosher commercial kitchen in New Jersey. There, the mammoth challah was baked to perfection in a 40-foot tunnel oven.
The record-breaking bread made its way to Congregation Rodeph Sholom on the Upper West Side for a grand unveiling. The enormous loaf, measuring 35 feet and 2 inches before being cut into portions, was then enjoyed by residents of Moishe House, a nonprofit that provides discounted housing for young Jewish adults.
Evidence is currently being submitted to Guinness World Records, aiming to surpass the existing record of 32 feet held by the Grandma Moses Bakery in Sydney, Australia.
The initiative was part of the #ShabbatofLove, spreading Jewish pride and joy through the breaking of this culinary world record. As the news of this challah creation spreads, it has served as a symbol of unity, tradition, and the rich tapestry of New York City’s diverse communities. Challalujah indeed!