True Romance Recipe

Activate yeast

Combine warm water (about 105–110°F / 40–43°C) and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar in a small bowl. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the water, stir gently, and let sit 5–8 minutes until foamy.

Make dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, remaining 1 tablespoon sugar and sea salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, softened butter and the egg. Pour the milk mixture and the activated yeast into the flour mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic (or use a stand mixer with dough hook on medium for 4–5 minutes). If dough is sticky, add up to 2 tablespoons more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.

First rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 60–75 minutes.

Shape and second rise

Punch down the dough and shape into a single round loaf or divide into 6 small rolls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a round cake pan. Cover and let rise again until puffy, about 30–40 minutes.

Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the loaf/rolls lightly with egg wash. Bake for 18–25 minutes for rolls (25–30 minutes for a single loaf) until golden brown and a thermometer inserted in the center reads 190–200°F (88–93°C). Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack.

Infuse juices with cloves

While the dough is on its second rise or baking, combine the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, granulated sugar and whole cloves in a small saucepan. Warm over medium-low heat until it just comes to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer 6–8 minutes to allow the cloves to infuse flavor. Do not boil vigorously.

Finish topping

Remove the pan from heat. Use a slotted spoon to remove and discard the whole cloves. Stir in 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and the pinch of salt until butter is melted. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with the teaspoon of cold water to make a slurry; stir the slurry into the warm juice. Return to very low heat for 1 minute until the mixture slightly thickens to a glossy syrup. If too thick, thin with up to 1 tablespoon warm water. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

Apply

While the baked loaf/rolls are still warm (but not piping hot), spoon or brush the warm clove-infused citrus syrup evenly over the top so it soaks into the crust and adds a glossy finish. For deeper flavor, pour a little into any crevices or splits.

Let the topped bread rest on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes so the syrup sets. If desired, dust lightly with powdered sugar and sprinkle fresh orange zest over the top for aroma and extra brightness. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.