Milk Crescent / Crescent with Milk (Bread)

To prepare a delicious and soft bread roll, similar in texture to a brownie, we will start by making a light and airy dough, which is prepared using a bowl and a simple mixing technique. In a large bowl, we add the dry ingredients, such as flour and salt, and in the middle of them, we make a well where we will add the yeast. It is important to use fresh and active yeast, which will help the dough to ferment.

After adding the yeast, we will gradually pour in warm water, mixing with a wooden spoon or by hand. If you choose to use a stand mixer, make sure it is set to a low speed, so as not to overmix the ingredients. I preferred the classic method, using my hand. Circular movements from the center of the bowl to the edge help aerate the dough, which is essential for achieving a soft texture. It is important not to overmix, a few minutes are enough to obtain a homogeneous dough.

Once the dough is well combined, we will take care of the shape in which we will bake the roll. I chose a glass dish, which we grease well with oil, ensuring it is evenly coated to prevent sticking. We pour the dough into the dish and make a few holes with our fingers on the surface, to observe its rise. Although not necessary, this technique helps us monitor the dough's progress.

To allow the dough to rise optimally, we cover it with a cloth and place it in a warm, draft-free spot. The microwave is an excellent option, as it seals tightly. We let the dough rise, and the time depends on the amount of yeast used. If you use 25g of yeast, the dough will be ready in about 20 minutes. With a smaller amount, it may take longer, but don’t worry, the dough will surely rise.

Meanwhile, we preheat the oven to 200°C. After the dough has risen and reached the desired size, we place it in the preheated oven. It is recommended to bake the roll at a higher temperature for the first few minutes, then reduce the temperature to medium. Baking will take until the roll becomes golden brown and appetizing, and the smell will fill the entire kitchen.

In the last minutes of baking, I chose to brush the roll with the water in which the pasta was boiled. This water contains starch, which will prevent a hard crust from forming, keeping the top soft and fluffy. The dish used has a diameter of 26 cm, which is ideal for obtaining a roll of suitable size to be enjoyed with family or friends. In the end, you will have a roll with a golden, soft, and delicious crust, perfect for savoring with butter, jam, or simply on its own.