Maple Walnut Ciabatta from the Hudson Valley

This sweet bread is inspired by the rolling hills and dense forests of the Hudson Valley in New York. Ciabatta's airy texture is perfectly complemented by the deep flavor of real maple syrup and crunch of toasted walnuts.

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups Warm Water
• 1 tsp tsp Active Dry Yeast
• 2 tbsp tbsp Pure Maple Syrup
• 3 tbsp tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1/2 cup Walnut Halves
• 3 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 tsp tsp Kosher Salt
• 1 tsp tsp Granulated Sugar
• 2 tbsp tbsp Unsalted Butter, softened

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Stir gently to dissolve and let sit for 5 minutes, or until foamy.

2. 2

   Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, sugar, and a pinch of the maple syrup.

3. 3

   Step 3: Add the yeast mixture, olive oil, and remaining maple syrup to the dry ingredients.

4. 4

   Step 4: Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then add the softened butter and continue mixing until a sticky ball forms.

5. 5

   Step 5: Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, knead the dough for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

6. 6

   Step 6: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

7. 7

   Step 7: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

8. 8

   Step 8: Gently punch down the dough and transfer to a lightly floured surface.

9. 9

   Step 9: Roll out the dough to a thickness of 1/2 inch (1 cm) and use a pastry cutter or knife to create a rough, irregular shape.

10. 10

    Step 10: Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

💡 Pro Tips

For a more pronounced maple flavor, use a high-quality, pure maple syrup. To toast the walnuts, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned.

📊 Nutrition per Serving