Description
This Clover-Shaped Bread Bowl is a charming and delicious bread perfect for serving soups, dips, or salads. Crafted with a soft, fluffy interior and a golden crust, this bread uses simple ingredients and a yeast dough shaped into a beautiful clover design, adding a festive and appealing touch to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Dough
- 2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
For Finishing
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix the Dough: Add olive oil, salt, and 3 cups of the all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to come together. Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle with a little more flour as needed.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Clover Bread: Once risen, punch down the dough gently and divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball. Arrange the balls closely together in a round baking dish or on a baking sheet to form a clover-like shape with four leaf-like sections.
- Second Rise: Cover the formed dough and allow it to rise again for 20-30 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the Bread: Brush the top of the dough gently with melted butter to ensure a golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before using it as a bread bowl or slicing for serving.
Notes
- Ensure water is at the correct temperature (110°F) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- You can add herbs or garlic to the dough for added flavor.
- Brush with melted butter after baking for a richer crust if desired.
- This bread is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Use the hollow center of the clover bread to serve soups or dips to impress your guests.
