MILK BREAD

Title: Fluffy Homemade Milk Bread Recipe

Introduction:

There’s something irresistible about the aroma of fresh bread wafting through the kitchen, and nothing beats the satisfaction of baking your own homemade bread. This recipe for fluffy milk bread will guide you through the steps to create a soft, pillowy loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with a spread of butter.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

Instructions:

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1. Proof the Yeast: Start by proofing the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This ensures that your yeast is active and ready to leaven the bread.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the proofed yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten egg. Stir the ingredients together until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour during the kneading process.
4. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size. This first rise allows the yeast to work its magic, creating a light and airy texture in the bread.
5. Shape the Loaf: After the first rise, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan.
6. Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake: Once the dough has risen for the second time, bake it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
8. Cool: Allow the milk bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing the bread too soon can result in a gummy texture, so exercise a bit of patience.
9. Enjoy: Once the bread has cooled, slice it and enjoy the soft, fluffy goodness. Whether you’re making sandwiches, toast, or simply savoring it with a spread of butter, this homemade milk bread is sure to become a household favorite.

Conclusion:

Baking your own milk bread at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas and provides you with a fresh, delicious loaf. Experiment with variations, such as adding a touch of honey or substituting part of the flour with whole wheat for a unique twist. With a bit of practice, you’ll master the art of making perfect milk bread that will have your family and friends coming back for more.