Fluffy bread is a staple in every household, offering a soft, airy texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re making sandwiches, enjoying it with butter, or using it for dipping, this homemade bread recipe ensures perfection every time. Unlike store-bought versions, this bread has a fresh taste, with no preservatives, making it healthier and more delicious. Follow this step-by-step guide to bake the best fluffy bread at home with simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm milk
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg (optional, for extra softness)
- ½ cup warm water
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast – In a small bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it turns frothy. This ensures that your yeast is active and will help the dough rise properly.
- Mix the Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture, softened butter, and warm water. If using an egg, add it at this stage.
- Knead the Dough – Mix the ingredients until they form a sticky dough. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Proper kneading helps develop gluten, making the bread soft and airy.
- First Rise – Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
- Shape the Dough – Once the dough has risen, punch it down to remove excess air. Shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions for rolls. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or baking sheet.
- Second Rise – Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes until it puffs up again. This second proofing enhances the fluffiness of the bread.
- Bake the Bread – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes or until the top turns golden brown. You can brush the top with melted butter before baking for a softer crust.
- Cool and Serve – Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to prevent it from becoming dense.