English Cottage Loaf is a rustic, free-form bread that embodies the simplicity of British baking. Unlike standard loaves, it is shaped by hand into a round or oval mound, resulting in an uneven, crackled crust that is irresistibly crisp. The interior is tender and airy, with a flavor profile defined by the richness of milk and the subtle nuttiness of rolled oats sprinkled on top. This bread is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent companion to soups, stews, or simply served warm with butter. It is a comforting, homemade staple that brings a sense of nostalgia to the table, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum satisfaction with every slice.
English Cottage Loaf
Description
English Cottage Loaf is a rustic, free-form bread that embodies the simplicity of British baking. Unlike standard loaves, it is shaped by hand into a round or oval mound, resulting in an uneven, crackled crust that is irresistibly crisp. The interior is tender and airy, with a flavor profile defined by the richness of milk and the subtle nuttiness of rolled oats sprinkled on top. This bread is incredibly versatile, making it an excellent companion to soups, stews, or simply served warm with butter. It is a comforting, homemade staple that brings a sense of nostalgia to the table, requiring minimal effort but delivering maximum satisfaction with every slice.Ingredients
Directions
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Dissolve sugar in warm milk and sprinkle yeast over the surface; let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
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In a large bowl, combine flour and salt; make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture.
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Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then turn out onto a lightly floured surface.
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Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding more flour if necessary.
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Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
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Punch down the risen dough and shape it into a rough oval or round loaf.
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Place the loaf on a baking sheet and brush the top with milk or beaten egg for glazing.
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Sprinkle rolled oats evenly over the top of the loaf.
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Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
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Preheat oven to 400&# 194;°F (200ðC) and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
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Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 281.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2.7g5%
- Saturated Fat 0.4g2%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 467.2mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 56.8g19%
- Dietary Fiber 5.2g21%
- Sugars 0.4g
- Protein 8.9g18%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
