Bread Dough Frogs

To prepare a delicious dough frog, we start by taking the dough stick and carefully portioning it. Two slices as thick as a finger are cut, each slice being divided in two, resulting in four small pieces that we set aside to form the frog's legs. Then, a slightly thicker slice is cut, which will be used as the base, and another slice about two fingers thick, which will need to be rolled out until it becomes a round sheet, perfect for the shell.

From the remaining dough, we shape a ball which we flatten slightly and place on a greased tray – this will be the body of the frog. The rolled-out sheet of dough will be carefully placed over the ball on the tray, but not before brushing the ball with a little beaten egg, ensuring that the two parts stick well together. Thus, we will obtain the body and shell of the frog.

The four previously kept pieces of dough will be transformed into cylinders, which will be carefully placed: two at the front and two at the back of the shell, forming the frog's legs. It is important to ensure that these legs are well-shaped to give the frog a more authentic look.

From the last slice of dough, a smaller piece will be cut, which will also be shaped into a cylinder, to be placed under the shell, between the two back legs, thus representing the frog's tail. Now we just need to take care of the head. From the remaining dough, a conical part will be shaped, with the thinner part placed under the shell, between the front legs, thus completing the frog's figure.

Each piece of dough that is mounted under the shell will be brushed with beaten egg, to ensure effective sticking between components. Once the frog is formed, a piece of aluminum foil is taken, made into a ball, and placed under the frog's neck, leaving it there. This clever trick will allow the frog to have its head raised after baking, adding an extra charm.

To prevent sticking, a piece of plastic wrap is brushed with oil and will cover the frog. This is an essential step that will help maintain the frog's beautiful shape. After finishing all the details, we let the frog rise, then bake it like any other bread, being careful to follow the correct steps to achieve a delicious and attractive final result. In the end, the frog will be not only a culinary delight but also a true visual spectacle on your table.