Step 1

Whisk the starter, cooled melted butter, egg yolks, sugar, and salt together in a large bowl. Whisk until thoroughly combined.

Step 2

Add the milk and whisk again.

Step 3

Using a dough whisk, stir the flour into the liquid in two additions until fully combined.

Step 4

Let the dough rest for 5 minutes before doing a series of three to five stretch and folds with wet hands or a dough whisk.

Step 5

Repeat the resting and stretch and fold process up to five more times.

Step 6

Cover the bowl and leave it in a cool place overnight. If your house is very warm, let it double before refrigerating it for the remainder of the time.

Step 7

Do a stretch and fold of the dough in the bowl to deflate it.

Step 8

Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out on it.

Step 9

Divide the dough and shape it into your desired shape.

Step 10

Move your dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 11

Let the dough double.

Step 12

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 13

Mix the egg yolk and water to make an egg wash. Brush it lightly over the dough covering all exposed areas.

Step 14

Bake for 25 to 35 minutes depending on the loaf size.