Soft Homemade Bread Loaf

Soft Homemade Bread Loaf

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 1/4 cups (400g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
• 2 tbsp (30g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
• 3/4 cup (180ml) warm milk (around 110°F/45°C)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
• 3 tbsp (45g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg

For the Egg Wash (Optional):

• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tbsp milk

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Make the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
   • Add the frothy yeast mixture, warm milk, softened butter, and egg to the dry ingredients.
   • Mix until the dough comes together. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. (Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 6–8 minutes.)
3. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Dough:
   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it into a rectangle.
   • Roll the rectangle tightly from the shorter edge into a log shape.
   • Place the dough log into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan.
5. Second Rise:
   • Cover the loaf pan loosely and let the dough rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size and the top is slightly above the edge of the pan.
6. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash for a shiny, golden crust (optional).
   • Bake the loaf for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
7. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
   • Slice and enjoy!