Soft Milk Bread is a delightful, light, and fluffy bread that stands out for its tender crumb and slightly sweet flavor. It’s made with a rich combination of milk and butter, making it perfect for everything from sandwiches to simply enjoying with a bit of butter or jam. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a loaf that is irresistibly soft and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and water. Stir in the sugar until it dissolves completely. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the top, stir, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and salt to ensure an even distribution. Make a small well in the center to add the yeast mixture.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Add the softened butter and honey (if using) into the yeast mixture. Pour this mixture into the well of the dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine.
- Knead the Dough:
- Use a dough hook or your hands to knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- First Proofing:
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently roll it into a rectangle. Fold the dough into thirds (like a letter), then roll it up tightly to form a loaf.
- Second Proofing:
- Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and allow it to rise again for 30-45 minutes until it has risen to the top of the pan.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). For a golden finish, lightly brush the top of the dough with an egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a little water).
- Bake the Bread:
- Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover the loaf with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the bread from the pan and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This ensures the soft texture remains intact.
Conclusion: Making Soft Milk Bread is a rewarding and enjoyable baking experience. With a slightly sweet flavor and a fluffy texture, this bread is perfect for all occasions, whether you’re serving it for breakfast, making sandwiches, or just enjoying a slice with tea. The key is in the gentle kneading and the right amount of proofing, which gives the bread its signature softness. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to bake your own delicious, homemade soft milk bread every time!