Discover the joy of baking perfectly fluffy bread at home with this foolproof recipe. Soft, airy, and with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, this bread is ideal for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying fresh out of the oven with butter. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, anyone can achieve bakery-quality results in their own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant yeast
- 1 ½ teaspoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- ¼ cup (60ml) milk (warm)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This ensures the yeast is active.
2. Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture, warm milk, and melted butter.
- Mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead for 5-7 minutes on medium speed with a dough hook attachment.
- The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.
4. First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the loaf in a greased 9×5-inch bread pan.
6. Second Rise:
- Cover the dough and let it rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size. This step ensures the bread will be fluffy and light.
7. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Optional: Brush the top of the dough with a beaten egg for a shiny golden crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy fresh, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.