
Most pastry washes rely on egg to deliver that golden, glossy finish — but this butter-and-milk version proves you don't need it. Melted unsalted butter stirred together with milk creates a smooth, rich coating that browns beautifully in the oven and gives your baked goods that bakery-worthy sheen. A touch of maple syrup or honey can be stirred in for a subtle sweetness and extra color, though it works just as well without. The technique is simple: brush a thin, even layer over your unbaked pastry right before it goes in, and let the heat do the rest. It coats without pooling, so you get an even finish across every fold and edge. This makes enough for a generous batch, so it's a great go-to whenever you're baking for a crowd.
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Combine the butter and milk in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring, until the butter is fully melted and the mixture is smooth and just warm, about 1–2 minutes. Remove from the heat and pour into a small bowl.
Stir in the maple syrup or honey, if using, until fully incorporated.
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