A deliciously fluffy and fragrant milk bread with a hint of vanilla, perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or as a side with butter and jam. This soft bread will melt in your mouth and make your kitchen smell heavenly!
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 3 ¼ cups (400g) bread flour
- 1 ½ tsp instant yeast
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk
- ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Brushing:
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for glaze)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Add the yeast mixture, egg, heavy cream, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough starts to form.
- Knead Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Gradually add the softened butter during kneading. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 7 minutes.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball or oval. Arrange them in a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the loaf pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise for another 45 minutes, or until puffy and touching the edges of the pan.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with milk. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and brush the top with honey for a slight glaze, if desired. Let cool before slicing.
Enjoy the soft, sweet, and aromatic vanilla milk bread! 🍞