Milk Bread Recipe

Milk Bread Recipe

If you’re eager to learn baking, starting with a milk bread recipe is a smart choice.

Milk bread, known for its soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet taste, is a staple in many households.

It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just to enjoy on its own.

In this post, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step process, breaking down each part to ensure you get it right from the first try.

We’ll cover the ingredients, the mixing techniques, and the baking secrets that lead to that perfect loaf.

Understand Milk Bread

Milk bread, also known as Hokkaido milk bread, is famous for its incredibly soft, fluffy texture and delicate sweetness.

It’s a popular choice for sandwiches, toast, and even French toast.

But fear not, baking this delightful bread is easier than you think, even for complete beginners!

What You’ll Need:

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups (375g) bread flour (high protein flour for better structure)
  • 1 ½ cups (375ml) lukewarm milk (not too hot, or it will kill the yeast)
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 3 tablespoons (45g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ teaspoons (7g) salt

Equipment:

  • Mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer (optional, but helpful)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rolling pin
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Activate the Yeast:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy and bubbly. This activates the yeast, ensuring your bread rises properly.

2. Mix the Dough:

  1. In a large mixing bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment), combine the flour and salt.
  2. Add the activated yeast mixture and the egg to the dry ingredients. Using a dough whisk or the stand mixer on low speed, mix until just combined.

3. Knead the Dough:

  1. Increase the speed of your stand mixer to medium, or knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface, for 5-7 minutes. The dough will be sticky at first, but continue kneading until it becomes smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
  2. Gradually add the softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, kneading well after each addition until fully incorporated.

4. First Rise:

  1. Lightly grease a clean bowl with oil. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in the greased bowl.
  2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shaping and Second Rise:

  1. Gently punch down the dough to release the air bubbles.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
  3. Optional: For a classic milk bread look, gently fold the dough in thirds like a business letter. Then, fold the dough in half again.
  4. Shape the dough into a loaf by rolling it up tightly from the long end. Pinch the seam to seal.
  5. Place the loaf seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Cover the loaf loosely with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rise for another 45 minutes, or until it has almost doubled in size.

6. Bake and Enjoy!

  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Brush the top of the loaf with milk or an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water).
  3. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
  4. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips:

  • For an even softer texture, use bread flour with a higher protein content (around 11-13%).
  • Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.
  • Don’t over-knead the dough, as this can make the bread tough.
  • If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes manageable.
  • Be patient! Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for achieving that signature fluffy texture.

With these simple steps and a little practice, you’ll be baking delicious homemade milk bread in no time!

Enjoy it for breakfast, sandwiches, or as a delightful trea

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