Description
This charming clover-shaped bread bowl recipe combines the homely appeal of fresh homemade bread with a unique, festive twist perfect for serving soups, dips, or salads. Soft on the inside with a golden crust, this bread bowl not only adds visual interest to your table but also deliciously encases your favorite fillings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bread Dough
- 2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
For Finishing
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dough: Add the olive oil and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, stirring with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Clover: Punch down the dough to release air. Divide the dough into six equal parts. Shape each piece into a round ball. Arrange five balls in a circle on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then place the sixth ball in the center, creating a clover shape. Pinch seams lightly to connect them but keep the balls slightly distinct.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough loosely and let it rise again for about 20-30 minutes until puffed up.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the dough gently with melted butter to achieve a rich golden crust. Bake for 25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Use: Remove from the oven and let cool on a rack. To create the bread bowl effect, carefully cut out the centers of the dough balls (except the center ball if desired) to hollow them slightly and serve with your preferred soup, dip, or filling.
Notes
- Use warm water to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
- Make sure the dough is soft but not too sticky while kneading—add flour gradually.
- You can brush the bread with egg wash instead of butter for a shinier crust.
- This bread bowl is best served the same day for optimal freshness.
- To keep leftover bread fresh, store in an airtight container or wrap in foil.
- Experiment with different shaped buns or sizes to fit your serving needs.
