Quick Description
This High-Protein Soft Seeded Milk Bread is fluffy, tender, and lightly enriched with warm milk, egg, and butter. Topped or mixed with chia or poppy seeds, it has a beautiful texture and extra nutrition. Perfect for sandwiches, breakfast toast, or alongside soups and dinners.
Servings & Timing
- Serves: 10–12 slices
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 28–32 minutes
- Total Time: ~2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients List
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1¼ cups warm milk
- ¼ cup warm water
- ¼ cup melted butter or oil
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or poppy seeds
Instructions
1. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in warm milk, warm water, melted butter (or oil), and egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
Knead by hand or mixer for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add chia or poppy seeds during the last few minutes of kneading.
4. First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 60–75 minutes or until doubled.
5. Shape
Punch down dough and shape into a loaf or rolls. Place into a greased loaf pan or baking tray.
6. Second Rise
Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
7. Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 28–32 minutes until golden brown.
8. Cool & Serve
Brush top with butter if desired. Cool before slicing.
Nutrition (per serving) (Approximate per slice)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6–8g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fat: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
Benefits
- Higher Protein: Milk and egg boost protein compared to basic bread
- Soft Texture: Great for toast and sandwiches
- Seed Nutrition: Chia or poppy adds fiber and healthy fats
- Versatile: Works sweet or savory
Additional Notes
- Use bread flour for extra chew and rise
- Add more seeds on top for bakery-style finish
- Warm liquids should be warm, not hot, to protect yeast
Dietary Info
- Vegetarian: Yes
- High-Protein: Moderate
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant milk + oil
Brief Introduction
This soft milk bread is one of those everyday recipes worth keeping forever. It bakes up fluffy and golden with a tender crumb, and the added seeds give it a little extra texture and nutrition. Great for breakfast, lunch, or snacks.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Mix Dough: Combine dry and wet ingredients
- Knead: Until smooth and stretchy
- Rise: Let dough double in size
- Shape & Bake: Golden and soft perfection
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- All-Purpose Flour: Easy everyday option
- Milk: Adds softness and richer flavor
- Egg: Helps structure and color
- Chia Seeds: Adds omega-3 and fiber
- Poppy Seeds: Mild crunch and classic flavor
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Add honey for sweeter bread
- Mix in oats or flax seeds
- Add herbs and garlic for savory loaf
Serve with:
- Butter and jam
- Eggs and avocado
- Soup or stew
- Sandwich fillings
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Room Temp: 3 days covered
- Fridge: Up to 5 days
- Freeze: Up to 2 months sliced
FAQs
Can I use active dry yeast?
Yes, bloom it first in warm water with sugar.
Why is my bread dense?
Usually under-kneading or not enough rise time.
Can I make rolls instead of loaf?
Yes, divide dough into portions and bake 18–22 minutes.
Optional Personal Story
Fresh homemade bread always makes a kitchen feel warm and welcoming. This loaf became a favorite because it’s soft enough for toast but sturdy enough for sandwiches.
