Milk Bread Loaf is a soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread that melts in your mouth. Known for its light and airy texture, it’s perfect for sandwiches, toasting with butter and jam, or enjoying plain. This foolproof recipe uses simple ingredients and is beginner-friendly, making it the ideal choice for those new to bread baking.
If you’ve been craving homemade bread that rivals any bakery, this milk bread loaf is a must-try!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Stand mixer (optional, for kneading)
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Pastry brush
Ingredients Overview
- Milk: Adds moisture and gives the bread its tender texture.
- Yeast: Helps the bread rise and achieve its fluffy structure.
- Sugar: Provides a subtle sweetness and activates the yeast.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the loaf.
- Flour: All-purpose or bread flour works best for this recipe.
- Egg: Enhances the bread’s structure and gives it a beautiful golden crust.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tbsp milk (for brushing)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, beaten egg, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6-8 minutes.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the pan and let the dough rise again for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size and is just above the edge of the pan.
- Preheat and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with milk for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Recipe Tips
- Milk Temperature: Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Kneading: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the bread its structure.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Freeze for longer storage.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Spread with butter, jam, or honey for a simple breakfast.
- Use as a base for sandwiches or French toast.
- Pair with soups or stews for a comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. Skip the activation step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! Knead the dough by hand on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
Why is my bread dense?
Dense bread can result from insufficient kneading, not enough rising time, or yeast that is no longer active.
Serving Suggestions
Milk Bread Loaf is versatile and pairs well with sweet or savory toppings. Try it with cream cheese and fresh berries, avocado and eggs, or even as a base for bread pudding! This bread is sure to become a staple in your home.
Milk Bread Loaf
Milk Bread Loaf is a soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread that melts in your mouth. Known for its light and airy texture, it’s perfect for sandwiches, toasting with butter and jam, or enjoying plain. This foolproof recipe uses simple ingredients and is beginner-friendly, making it the ideal choice for those new to bread baking.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk about 110°F
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 tbsp milk for brushing
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, beaten egg, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6-8 minutes.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the pan and let the dough rise again for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size and is just above the edge of the pan.
- Preheat and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the dough with milk for a glossy finish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
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