Experience the joy of baking with this ultimate fluffy bread recipe that promises a soft, airy texture with every bite. Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed with butter, this bread will elevate your baking game. Follow this easy-to-follow recipe and impress your family and friends with a homemade loaf that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying to make.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or melted butter, for greasing the bowl)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. This activates the yeast and ensures your bread will rise properly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg.
3. Combine and Knead:
- Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
4. First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl (use olive oil or melted butter), cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough:
- Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release the air. Transfer it back to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller pieces for rolls. Tuck the edges under to create a smooth top.
6. Second Rise:
- Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan (for a loaf) or on a baking sheet (for rolls). Cover and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffed up.
7. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during the second rise.
8. Bake:
- Once risen, bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes for a loaf, or 15-20 minutes for rolls. The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
10. Enjoy:
- Slice and enjoy your fluffy bread warm or toasted, perhaps with a pat of butter or your favorite jam!