Perfectly Fluffy Homemade Bread: Soft, Light, and Irresistible

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.

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