Layered bread

Layered Bread a la Ruxy – A Fluffy Delicacy for Special Moments

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8 servings

Welcome to the fascinating world of homemade bread! Today, I will present you with the recipe for Layered Bread a la Ruxy, a simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for family meals, brunches, or special occasions. This bread is not only delicious but also full of stories and traditions, holding a special place in the hearts of many households. I will provide you with all the necessary details to achieve a perfect result, along with some tips and tricks to help you enjoy the cooking experience.

Ingredients

- 1 kg flour (preferably type 650 for a fluffier texture)
- 100 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil, according to preference)
- 600 ml milk (warmed to about 37°C)
- 2 packets of dry yeast (approximately 14 g)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup milk for brushing
- A little flour for dusting (about a handful)

Step by Step – Your Guide to Perfect Bread

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start by sifting the flour into a large, deep bowl, ideal for kneading. Make sure not to skip this step, as sifting aerates the flour, contributing to the fluffy texture of the bread. On the edge of the flour, add the salt, and in the center of the flour, create a well. This is where the magic will begin.

Next, add the dry yeast and sugar into the well. The sugar will feed the yeast, helping it to activate. Then, slowly pour in the warm milk, gently mixing with a fork to incorporate the flour around. After that, add the olive oil. Continue to knead the dough gently until it becomes dense yet elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

Step 2: First Rise

Once you have a smooth dough, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 30 minutes. A great idea is to place it next to the stove flame, where the temperature is constant and warm. The dough should double in volume.

Step 3: Forming the Layers

After it has risen, sprinkle a little flour on the table and turn out the dough. Divide it into three equal balls, each decreasing in size: one large ball, one medium, and one small. These will be the three layers of your bread.

Place the large ball at the bottom, followed by the medium, and finally the small ball. Gently press each ball to secure them. Finally, make a small indentation in the center of the top ball to give it a special appearance. Cover again with a towel and let them rise for another 15 minutes.

Step 4: Baking the Bread

While the dough rises, preheat the oven to 200°C. After 15 minutes, brush each layer with the remaining milk, then sprinkle a little flour on top for a rustic look.

Place the bread in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After this time, reduce the temperature to 180°C and leave the bread in the oven for another 10 minutes. Check if it is baked by performing a simple test: gently tap the bottom of the bread with your finger; if it sounds hollow, it is done. It may need another 5 minutes, depending on your oven.

Once baked, remove the bread and let it cool on a rack. Then, don’t hesitate to take a warm piece and enjoy it! It’s impossible to resist!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Layered Bread a la Ruxy is delicious both plain and with various toppings. You can serve it with fresh butter, jams, cheese, or even as a base for sandwiches. You can pair it with warm soups or fresh salads for a complete meal.

If you want to give it a personalized touch, you can add spices like garlic powder, herbs, or grated cheese to the dough for a unique taste and aroma.

Nutritional Benefits

This bread is not only tasty but also an excellent choice for a balanced diet. The flour contains essential carbohydrates for energy, while olive oil brings healthy fatty acids beneficial for the heart. The milk adds calcium, and the yeast, rich in B vitamins, contributes to healthy metabolism.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is it important to sift the flour?
Sifting the flour aerates and removes any impurities, giving the bread a lighter texture.

2. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use fresh yeast, being careful to adjust the amount (approximately 25 g of fresh yeast for every 7 g of dry yeast).

3. How can I tell if the bread is baked?
Gently tap the bottom of the bread with your finger; if it sounds hollow, it is done. Also, a golden crust is another sign that the bread is baked.

So, give this Layered Bread a la Ruxy recipe a chance and let yourself be carried away by its aromas and textures! It’s a recipe that will bring joy and warmth in every bite. I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!