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Milk Bread Loaf

Milk Bread Loaf
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This Milk Bread Loaf recipe delivers a soft, cloud-like bread that is tender, slightly sweet, and perfectly pillowy. Featuring a delicate texture and subtle richness from milk, butter, and eggs, this classic homemade bread is easy to make and ideal for any meal. Its gentle sweetness and fluffy crumb make every slice irresistibly comforting, perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk, lukewarm (100°F to 110°F)
  • 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
  • 3 tbsp (42 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tbsp (25 g) sugar
  • 2 tsp (7 g) active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp (6 g) salt
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: Warm the milk until lukewarm, then stir in 1 teaspoon of the sugar and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy, proving the yeast is active and ready.
  2. Mix the Dough Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, softened butter, and the egg. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and gently mix until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a clean surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, developing the gluten essential for a soft texture.
  4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
  5. Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough, gently shape it into a loaf, and place it into a greased loaf pan. Cover again and let it rise a second time for 30 to 45 minutes until puffed.
  6. Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown on top and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  7. Cool and Enjoy: Remove bread from the oven and cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing for best texture.

Notes

  • Use lukewarm milk (100°F to 110°F) to activate yeast without killing it.
  • Knead dough well for a smooth, elastic texture that rises properly.
  • Allow two rises for maximum fluffiness and light crumb.
  • Use softened butter so it incorporates evenly into the dough.
  • Ensure oven is preheated and at correct temperature for even baking.
  • Use fresh yeast to guarantee proper rising and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: milk bread, soft bread, fluffy bread, homemade bread, Japanese milk bread, milk loaf, tender bread, baking bread

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/milk-bread-loaf/