Wool Roll Bread: A Stunning and Delicious Baking Adventure

Directions

Preparing the Dough:

1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
2. Heat liquids: In a small saucepan, heat the milk and heavy cream until warm (but not hot). If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and add the warmed milk and cream mixture.
4. Form the dough: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a rough dough forms. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment on low speed.
5. Add butter: Add the softened butter and continue kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer.
6. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.

Shaping the Wool Roll Bread:

1. Divide the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 5-6 equal pieces.
2. Roll out the dough: Take one piece of dough and roll it out into a long oval shape on a lightly floured surface.
3. Cut the dough: Using a bench scraper or sharp knife, make parallel cuts about 1/4 inch apart on the top two-thirds of the dough, creating a fringed look.
4. Add filling: If using a filling, place a small amount on the uncut portion of the dough at the bottom.
5. Roll up the dough: Starting from the bottom, roll the dough upwards, encasing the filling and leaving the fringed part on the outside. Place the rolled dough in the prepared loaf pan. Repeat with the remaining dough pieces.
6. Second rise: Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let the dough rise again in a warm place until almost doubled in size, about 45 minutes.

Baking the Bread:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk.
3. Brush and bake: Gently brush the top of the dough with the egg wash. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
4. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes and Tips

• Warm environment: Ensure your kitchen is warm enough for the dough to rise properly. If your kitchen is cool, you can create a warm environment by placing the dough in an oven with the light on or near a warm appliance.
• Uniform pieces: Try to make each piece of dough as equal as possible to ensure even baking.
• Creative fillings: Experiment with different fillings to suit your taste. Sweet options like Nutella or fruit preserves are delightful, while savory choices like cheese and herbs make for a tasty snack.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen bread in the oven for a few minutes before serving.