Fluffy Milk Bread Loaf Recipe: A Soft and Irresistible Delight

 





Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tangzhong

  1. In a small saucepan, whisk together 2 tablespoons of flour, 1/4 cup milk, and 1/4 cup water until smooth.

  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook the mixture, stirring continuously, until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

  3. Remove the tangzhong from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

2. Make the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.

  2. Add the warm milk, egg, softened butter, and cooled tangzhong to the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

  3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 8-10 minutes.

  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Shape the Dough

  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.

  2. Divide the dough into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.

  3. Using a rolling pin, flatten each ball into an oval shape. Fold the top third of the oval down and the bottom third up, then roll it up into a cylinder.

  4. Place the cylinders seam-side down into a greased loaf pan, arranging them side by side.

4. Final Rise

  1. Cover the loaf pan with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise again for 40-50 minutes, or until it puffs up and fills the pan.

5. Bake the Bread

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash mixture for a shiny, golden crust.

  3. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

6. Cool and Serve

  1. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

  2. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing (if you can resist!).

Tips for Perfect Milk Bread

  • Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements, especially for flour, ensure the right consistency of dough.

  • Warm Environment: Yeast thrives in a warm spot, so keep the dough in a cozy corner of your kitchen during the rising phases.

  • Storage: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container or bread box. It’ll stay soft for up to 3 days.