Fluffy Japanese Milk Bread

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Fluffy Japanese Milk Bread.

1. Step 1

   To create a delightful water roux, start by whisking together 3 3/4 tablespoons of bread flour and 10 tablespoons of water in a saucepan over low heat.

2. Step 2

   Stir the mixture until it reaches a temperature of 150°F (65°C) on an instant-read thermometer.

3. Step 3

   Once achieved, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

4. Step 4

   In a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook, blend 3 cups plus 3 tablespoons of bread flour, sugar, milk powder, yeast, and salt on low speed until everything is well combined.

5. Step 5

   When the roux has cooled, incorporate it into the flour mixture along with one egg, cream, and cold water.

6. Step 6

   Knead the dough on low speed for about 1 to 2 minutes until it forms a shaggy mass, then continue mixing until the dough begins to pull away from the bowl's sides.

7. Step 7

   Gradually increase the mixer speed to medium and add butter, mixing until fully incorporated and the dough is smooth, which should take around 10 to 20 minutes.

8. Step 8

   Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise until it doubles in size, approximately 40 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Once risen, gently flatten the dough and shape it into an oblong loaf.

10. Step 10

    Place the loaf into a greased loaf pan, cover it, and allow it to rise again until it doubles in size, about 45 to 60 minutes.

11. Step 11

    Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

12. Step 12

    When the loaf has risen, uncover it and bake in the preheated oven until it turns a beautiful golden brown, roughly 30 to 35 minutes.

13. Step 13

    If the top browns too quickly, simply cover it with foil.

14. Step 14

    After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

15. Step 15

    Enjoy the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen as you savor each slice!.