Soft and Fluffy Milk Bread

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

1. Step 1

   In a small saucepan, combine bread flour, water, and whole milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth.

2. Step 2

   Set the saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until it thickens and approaches a gentle bubble, reaching a temperature of at least 150°F (65°C).

3. Step 3

   Once thickened, remove from heat and pour into a measuring cup, ensuring you have exactly 1/2 cup.

4. Step 4

   Allow this mixture to cool to room temperature, which should take around 30 minutes.

5. Step 5

   In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix together the bread flour, cooled starter, salt, sugar, yeast, warm milk, and egg.

6. Step 6

   Start on low speed until the dough begins to form a cohesive ball and pulls away from the bowl's sides, scraping down as needed, for about 5 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Pause the mixer and scrape the dough off the hook back into the bowl.

8. Step 8

   Add the butter and knead on low speed until the dough is slightly tacky yet smooth and elastic, which should take about 10 to 12 minutes, scraping down the sides as necessary.

9. Step 9

   Once kneaded, remove the dough from the bowl and shape it into a smooth ball.

10. Step 10

    Place it in a lightly buttered bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm area until it doubles in size, approximately 1 to 1.

11. Step 11

    5 hours.

12. Step 12

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

13. Step 13

    Transfer the dough to a clean work surface without adding flour.

14. Step 14

    Gently press out any air and shape the dough into a rectangle about 9 inches wide.

15. Step 15

    Starting from one of the shorter sides, roll the dough lengthwise into a log.

16. Step 16

    Position the log seam-side down in the prepared loaf pan, pressing it gently for even distribution.

17. Step 17

    Cover the pan and let the dough rise until it nearly reaches the top, about 35 to 45 minutes.

18. Step 18

    Lightly brush the top of the loaf with milk for a beautiful finish.

19. Step 19

    Bake in the preheated oven for around 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf has puffed up delightfully.

20. Step 20

    Once baked, let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes before carefully transferring the bread to a wire rack to cool completely, which should take about an hour.

21. Step 21

    Enjoy the delightful aroma and the satisfaction of homemade bread as you slice into your creation.