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Soft and Fluffy Milk Bread Recipe

Soft and Fluffy Milk Bread Recipe

Melena
This Soft and Fluffy Milk Bread Recipe makes the dreamiest loaf — rich, buttery, and pillowy soft inside! With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll bake a bakery-quality milk bread right at home. Perfect for breakfast, toast, or sandwiches — you’ll fall in love with every slice!
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Rise Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 55 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Dough:
  • 3 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup warm whole milk
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 tablespoons softened butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • For the Tangzhong Optional but Recommended:
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • ½ cup milk
  • For the Egg Wash:
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • Optional Add-Ins:
  • 1 tablespoon honey or sweetened condensed milk extra flavor
  • 1 tablespoon milk powder stronger aroma
  • Sesame seeds or oats for topping

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Make the Tangzhong (Optional)
  • In a small saucepan, whisk together flour and milk.
  • Cook over low heat until it thickens into a smooth paste.
  • Remove from heat and let cool completely.
  • Step 2: Mix the Dough
  • In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
  • Add milk, egg, softened butter, and the cooled Tangzhong (if using).
  • Mix until a dough forms, then knead 10–15 minutes (by hand or mixer) until smooth and elastic.
  • Pro tip: Use the windowpane test — stretch a piece of dough until thin without tearing.
  • Step 3: First Rise
  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1½ hours or until doubled.
  • Step 4: Shape the Dough
  • Punch down the dough, divide into 2–3 equal parts.
  • Roll each into an oval, then roll into logs.
  • Place the logs side by side in a greased loaf pan.
  • Step 5: Second Rise
  • Cover and let rise again for 40–60 minutes, until dough reaches just above the pan’s rim.
  • Step 6: Bake the Loaf
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Brush top with egg wash for a golden finish.
  • Bake 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  • Step 7: Cool and Serve
  • Remove from pan and let cool at least 15 minutes.
  • Slice and enjoy warm with butter or jam!

Notes

  • Use bread flour: Higher protein = better rise and texture.
  • Don’t rush the rise: Patience gives a lighter crumb.
  • Avoid overbaking: Watch for golden brown color — not dark.
  • Store properly: Wrap tightly or use an airtight container.
  • Freeze extra slices: Reheat for instant fresh-baked softness!