Egg-Carton Shaped Crusty Bread with Brie Dip

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Egg-Carton Shaped Crusty Bread with Brie Dip

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1.5 hours rising)
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Servings: 1 large loaf

Ingredients

For the Bread:

  • 300 ml warm water

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 7 g (1 packet) active dry yeast

  • 1 tbsp sugar

  • 450–500 g all-purpose flour, added gradually

For the Savory Brie Cheese Sauce:

  • 100 g Brie cheese, chopped (rind optional)

  • 150 g cream cheese

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 2 tbsp green onions, sliced

  • ½ tsp sweet paprika

  • 50 ml beer (optional; adds a malty depth)

  • ½ tsp dill seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large bowl or jar, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.

  2. Stir in salt.

  3. Gradually add the flour one cup at a time, mixing after each addition.

  4. Knead the dough on a floured surface (or in a large jar) until smooth and elastic—about 8–10 minutes.

  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg-Carton Formwork

  1. Take a clean cardboard egg carton.

  2. Line it thoroughly with parchment paper or aluminum foil brushed lightly with oil.

    • This ensures the dough does not stick and remains safe for baking.

  3. Place the lined egg carton on a metal baking sheet.

Step 3: Shape and Second Rise

  1. Gently pour or place the risen dough into the lined egg carton.

  2. The dough will naturally settle into the divots, creating the unique “bubbly” bottom shape.

  3. Let the dough rest for 20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).

Step 4: Bake the Bread

  1. Bake the bread on the baking sheet for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

  2. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing.

Step 5: Make the Brie Cheese Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine Brie, cream cheese, and beer.

  2. Stir constantly until fully melted and smooth.

  3. Remove from heat and stir in diced onion, green onions, paprika, and dill seeds.

  4. Keep warm until ready to serve.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Slice the bread to reveal the decorative bottom edge created by the egg carton.

  2. Spread the warm cheese sauce generously over the slices, or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.

Tips for Success

  • Safety first: Always place the cardboard on a metal baking tray. Do not let cardboard touch the heating elements of the oven.

  • Smooth sauce: Remove the rind from the Brie before melting for a creamier texture.

  • Optional variations: Add herbs like thyme or chives to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.

  • Storage: The bread is best enjoyed fresh. The cheese sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated gently.

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