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Ingredients for Buttery Layered Bread
This recipe uses simple pantry ingredients that come together to create a beautifully layered loaf of bread. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing on the bread)
How to Make Buttery Layered Bread
1. Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
2. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, pour it into the bowl with the flour and mix until it forms a dough. Add the softened butter and milk to the dough, then knead the mixture for about 8-10 minutes on a lightly floured surface until the dough is smooth and elastic.
If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you knead it. Be careful not to add too much flour, as you want the dough to remain soft and pliable.
3. Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This step allows the dough to become light and airy.
4. Shape the Bread
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll the dough out into a rectangle about 1/4-inch thick. Brush the dough with melted butter, and fold it over in half so the buttered sides are facing inward.
Next, slice the dough into 1-inch strips. Stack the strips on top of each other like a stack of books. Then, gently place the stacked dough into a greased loaf pan, standing the strips vertically. This creates the signature layered effect.
5. Final Rise
Cover the loaf pan with a towel and allow the dough to rise for another 30 minutes, until it has puffed up and fills the pan.
6. Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Brush with More Butter
Remove the bread from the oven and immediately brush the top with additional melted butter for that extra layer of richness and shine. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing.
Serving Suggestions for Buttery Layered Bread
Buttery layered bread is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas for how to enjoy it:
- As a Side Dish: Serve it alongside hearty soups like tomato basil, potato leek, or a rich chicken noodle. The layers of bread will soak up the flavors of the broth.
- With Dips: Use the bread as a dipping tool for creamy dips like hummus, spinach-artichoke dip, or a warm cheese fondue.
- For Breakfast: Toast a slice and spread it with butter, jam, or honey for a delightful breakfast treat.
- As a Snack: Serve it with a bit of garlic butter or a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for an indulgent snack or appetizer.
- With Roasted Meats: Pair it with roasted meats like roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or beef stew. The bread is perfect for sopping up the juices from your main dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Buttery layered bread is a delightful treat that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With its soft, fluffy interior and flaky, golden crust, this bread is sure to impress anyone who tries it. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the butter to shine, creating a rich and indulgent bread that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re serving it as a side, using it for sandwiches, or enjoying it on its own, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a fun and easy way to elevate any meal, and the beautiful layers will make your guests think you’ve spent hours in the kitchen—when in fact, you’ve just followed a few simple steps.
Pro Tip: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight for an even more flavorful bread. Just let it rise in the fridge and bring it back to room temperature before baking.
So, next time you want to treat yourself to something truly comforting, try this buttery layered bread. It’s easy to make, and the result will leave everyone asking for seconds!
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