Eastern Slavic Bird Cookies with Fermented Dough

Method

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, salt, and the yeast mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour until doubled in size.
7. After rising, divide the dough into two parts, shape into logs, and chill for 30 minutes.
8. Roll out the dough and cut into bird shapes.
9. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden.
10. Let cool, then fill with melted chocolate and dust with powdered sugar.