Homemade Milk Bread

Ingredients:

• 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
   • Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture and whisk until well combined.
   • In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
3. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Dough:
   • After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf.
   • Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan, cover it again, and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it nearly doubles in size.
5. Bake the Bread:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg to give it a glossy finish.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
   • Transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade milk bread, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or just enjoying with a pat of butter!