Cottage Loaf

The cottage loaf is a classic British bread that is characterized by its unique shape, with a smaller ball of dough stacked on top of a larger one. This recipe yields a soft and fluffy loaf that is perfect for sandwiches or to accompany a hearty soup.

Cottage Loaf

Ingredients

  • 500g strong white bread flour
  • 10g salt
  • 7g fast-action yeast
  • 320ml warm water

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Make a well in the center.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the yeast with the warm water and let it sit for a few minutes until frothy.
  3. Pour the yeast mixture into the well in the flour and mix to form a dough.
  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough and divide it into two portions, one slightly larger than the other.
  7. Shape each portion into a ball and place the smaller one on top of the larger one on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  8. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
  9. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  10. Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
  11. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
150 per serving
Carbohydrates
30g
Protein
5g
Fat
2g

Supplies

Baking sheet Parchment paper Large bowl Measuring cups and spoons Bread knife

Tools

Oven Mixing bowls Wire rack

Serving suggestions

Serve the cottage loaf sliced and spread with butter, or use it to make delicious sandwiches with your favorite fillings.

Tips & tricks

For a shiny crust, brush the loaf with a beaten egg before baking.

Cost

$3