Bake a loaf of incredibly soft, fluffy milk bread using simple ingredients. This recipe yields a tender crumb perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying warm.
Author:Sarah Peterson
Prep Time:30 min
Cook Time:35 min
Total Time:2 hr 5 min
Yield:1 loaf 1x
Category:Baking
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup whole milk, warmed slightly
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
3 cups bread flour
1/4 cup whole milk powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 egg yolk (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
Instructions
Combine the warmed milk, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl or stand mixer, whisk together the bread flour, milk powder, and salt.
Add the yeast mixture and the egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Add the softened butter and knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. The dough will be soft.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Gently punch down the dough. Divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball.
Arrange the three dough balls in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan, leaving space between them.
Cover the pan loosely and let the dough proof a second time for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the dough has nearly doubled and risen above the rim of the pan.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Whisk the egg yolk and water together to make an egg wash. Gently brush the top of the dough with the wash.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
Remove the bread from the oven and immediately turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
For an extra rich flavor, consider using condensed milk bread techniques for a sweeter result.
This soft bread is excellent for meal planning and makes great leftovers for toast.
If you are looking for alternatives to traditional baking, this recipe is simple enough that you do not need a sous-vide precision cooker.