This flaky butter bread is a delightful, golden-brown loaf that’s both crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. With just a few simple ingredients and careful folding techniques, you can create a rich, buttery bread perfect for any occasion. Whether served at breakfast or as a snack, this bread is sure to impress with its light layers and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Rest time: 30 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- Dry yeast: 5 g (0.17 oz)
- Sugar: 10 g (2 teaspoons)
- Water: 125 ml (1/2 cup)
- Milk: 125 ml (1/2 cup)
- Flour: 480 g (3 3/4 cups)
- Salt: 6 g (1 teaspoon)
- Butter: 125 g (1/2 cup), softened
- Egg yolk: 1
- Vegetable oil: 1 teaspoon
- Sesame seeds: for sprinkling
Directions:
- Activate yeast:
- In a bowl, combine yeast, sugar, water, and milk. Stir until the yeast and sugar dissolve. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Mix the dough:
- Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a spoon until combined.
- Gradually knead the dough by hand until it becomes soft and smooth.
- Rest the dough:
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll each into a ball, cover, and let them rest for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the butter dough:
- Roll out the dough into a large circle, brush generously with softened butter, and fold as shown in the video.
- Repeat the folding process to create layers. Set the dough aside and prepare the second dough in the same manner.
- Chill the dough:
- Place both folded doughs in the freezer for 20 minutes to firm up.
- Shape the dough:
- Roll out each dough to the size of a serving plate. Stack them carefully on a baking tray.
- Egg wash and bake:
- Brush the top with a mixture of egg yolk and oil. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the bread cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with butter or your favorite spread.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this bread warm with butter, honey, or jam for a delicious breakfast treat.
- Pair it with soups or stews for a comforting meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the butter is soft enough to spread evenly over the dough for perfect flakiness.
- Be gentle when folding to avoid tearing the dough, and chill to help maintain the layers.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Milk and butter provide a good source of calcium and healthy fats.
- This bread is rich in carbohydrates, giving energy and a feeling of satiety.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy and gluten.
- Vegetarian-friendly.
Nutritional Facts (per slice, approximately 1 of 10 slices):
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Storage Tips:
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Buttery and Flaky: Layers of dough and butter create a crispy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Easy to Follow: Straightforward steps with minimal ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect as a snack or accompaniment to any meal.
- Comforting and Delicious: Ideal for special occasions or a cozy afternoon treat.
Conclusion:
This flaky butter bread is a delicious homemade treat that’s easy to prepare and impressive to serve. The crisp exterior and soft, buttery layers make it a versatile addition to any meal, whether for breakfast or dinner. Its rich flavor and delicate texture will make it a family favorite. Try it out, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a bread that’s both beautiful and delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. You may need to adjust the water content. - How do I prevent the dough from sticking?
Dust your surface with flour or use parchment paper. - Can I add herbs or spices?
Absolutely! Rosemary, thyme, or garlic would be great additions. - Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but the flavor may not be as rich. - What if my dough is too sticky?
Add a little extra flour, but be cautious not to overdo it. - How do I know when the bread is done?
The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. - Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight and bake the next day. - How do I get an extra crispy crust?
Bake at a slightly higher temperature for the last 5 minutes. - What can I use instead of sesame seeds?
Poppy seeds or sunflower seeds work well. - Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, freeze the baked bread and reheat in the oven when ready to serve.