Ingredients:

  • 1.5 cups (355ml) warm water
  • 2.25 tsp (7g) active dry yeast
  • 0.25 cup (80ml) molasses
  • 1 tbsp (6g) orange zest
  • 1.5 cups (190g) rye flour
  • 2.5 cups (310g) bread flour
  • 1 tsp (6g) salt
  • 1 tsp (2g) ground anise seeds
  • 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of molasses. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until a frothy layer forms on top.
  2. Stir in the remaining molasses, orange zest, and ground anise.
  3. Gradually add the rye flour, bread flour, and salt. Knead using a stand mixer or by hand until the dough is smooth and elastic, adding bread flour one tablespoon at a time if too sticky.
  4. Fold in the softened butter during the last 2 minutes of kneading.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area.