Ruisleipä

Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

In a large bowl, combine the rye flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and sugar or honey.

Add the buttermilk, molasses (if using), and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.

Knead and Rise

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it into a greased loaf pan or shape it into a round loaf and place it on a baking sheet.

Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes, or until puffy.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375째F (190째C).

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and is a deep brown color.

Cool

Allow the Ruisleip채 to cool on a wire rack before slicing.