Ingredients:
– Bread Dough:
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
– 1 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
– 1/4 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Honey Butter Topping:
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp sesame seeds or poppy seeds (optional)
PREPARATION:
- Activate the Yeast:
– In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. - Make the Dough:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and warm milk. Add the softened butter.
– Mix until a dough forms. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or knead by hand. - Knead the Dough:
– Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. - First Rise:
– Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until it has doubled in size. - Shape the Dough:
– Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into small balls (about the size of a golf ball) and place them in a greased round baking pan or skillet. - Second Rise:
– Cover the pan with a damp cloth and let the dough balls rise again for about 30-45 minutes until they puff up. - Prepare the Honey Butter Topping:
– In a small bowl, mix melted butter and honey until well combined. - Bake the Bread:
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the risen dough balls with the honey butter mixture and sprinkle sesame seeds or poppy seeds on top if desired.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown. - Serve:
– Allow the bread to cool slightly before serving. Brush with more honey butter if desired.
Enjoy your homemade honey butter bread!