Kaak (Milk Bread)

Name: Kaak (Milk Bread)
Prep time: 195 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 215 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 2 cups milk, divided; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste); 1/4 cup honey; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 egg, whisked; 1/2 cup sesame seeds (optional)

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Serves: 8

Prep Time: 30 active minutes + resting time 2 hours and 45 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

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About Kaak (Milk Bread)

Kaak, also known as milk bread, is a soft, pillowy bread that’s a cherished part of Middle Eastern baking traditions. This subtly sweet and tender bread is often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a comforting treat for any time of day. Infused with the delicate flavors of milk and sometimes topped with sesame seeds, Kaak is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether served as a snack, breakfast, or alongside savory dishes, this homemade bread brings warmth and a touch of nostalgia to the table, inviting everyone to savor the simple pleasures of freshly baked goodness.

Ingredients

2 cups milk, divided

1 tablespoon active dry yeast

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste)

1/4 cup honey

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon butter

1 egg, whisked

1/2 cup sesame seeds (optional)

Preparation

01In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring 1 cup of milk to 90 degrees F (the temperature of a warm bath).

02In the saucepan, sprinkle yeast over the warm milk and allow to dissolve.

03In a large bowl, add flour, tahini, honey, salt, warm milk with yeast, and remaining cup of milk.

04Using a large spoon, stir ingredients until a dough forms.

05Remove spoon once dough is formed, transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead dough by hand until smooth and elastic (approximately 5 minutes).

06Form dough into a tight ball, transfer to a buttered bowl, and cover with plastic wrap.

07Allow dough to sit at room temperature until doubled in size (approximately 1 hour).

08Once dough doubles in size, punch down, cover, and allow to double in size again (approximately 1 hour).

09Heat oven to 360 degrees F.

10Deflate dough, divide into 8 equal pieces, and cover with plastic wrap.

11On a floured surface, create 16-inch rope with one piece. Attach the ends to create a circle and place on sheet pan lined with parchment. Repeat with remaining portions of dough.

12Cover baking sheet and allow dough to sit for 10 minutes.

13Lightly brush each ring with beaten egg and generously sprinkle with sesame seeds, if using.

14Bake for 20 minutes, until golden brown.

15Can be served warm or cool.