This Soft Milk Bread is incredibly fluffy, soft, and slightly sweet—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a comforting snack on its own. The milk powder and warm milk give it a rich, tender texture, while the slight sweetness from powdered sugar enhances the flavor. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced baker, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen!
Servings & Timing
- Yield: 1 loaf
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including two rises)
- Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Nutritional Info (Per Slice – Approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 4g
(Values vary based on bread size and ingredients used.)
Ingredients
- 150 ml (⅔ cup) warm milk
- 6 g (2 tsp) yeast
- 250 g (2 cups) wheat flour
- 50 g (¼ cup) powdered sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 10 g (1 tbsp) milk powder
- 15 g (1 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
How to Make Soft Milk Bread
-
Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is activated. -
Make the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour, powdered sugar, salt, and milk powder. Stir until evenly mixed.
Add the yeast mixture and unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Mix together until a dough begins to form. -
Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a small amount of flour.
Once the dough is smooth, shape it into a ball. -
First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. -
Shape the Dough:
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough into a rectangular shape, then fold the sides toward the middle and roll it up into a log shape. Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan. -
Second Rise:
Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise for an additional 30–45 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the edges of the pan. -
Prepare the Egg Wash:
Whisk the egg yolk with a small amount of water (about 1 tablespoon) to create an egg wash. Gently brush the top of the dough with the egg wash. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor. -
Bake the Bread:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you notice the top browning too quickly, you can cover it with foil. -
Cool and Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container or bread box for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 1 week. Toast it or warm it up before serving for the best texture.
- Freezer: Freeze the loaf for up to 1 month. Slice before freezing for easy portioning. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this recipe without milk powder?
A: Yes, you can skip the milk powder, but the bread may be slightly less tender. You can replace it with an additional 1 tablespoon of flour if desired.
Q: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of wheat flour?
A: Yes, you can use all-purpose flour if you prefer. It will still produce a soft, fluffy loaf, but wheat flour may provide a slightly denser texture.
Q: Can I add flavorings to the bread?
A: Yes, feel free to add herbs, garlic, or even cheese to the dough for a flavorful twist.
Q: Can I make this recipe without sugar?
A: While the sugar helps with the yeast activation and adds a slight sweetness, you can omit it for a less sweet version of the bread.
Conclusion
This Soft Milk Bread is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves fresh, homemade bread. It’s soft, tender, and slightly sweet, with a texture that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with butter. The simple ingredients and straightforward process make it a fantastic baking project for all skill levels.
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