Perfect Pillowy Milk Bread

Perfect Pillowy Milk Bread

Introduction:

Dive into the delightful texture of Perfect Pillowy Milk Bread, a staple in many cultures that’s beloved for its soft, fluffy texture and subtly sweet flavor. This recipe guides you through creating a bakery-quality loaf at home, ensuring a perfect rise and a tender crumb with every batch.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
   • Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C). Dissolve the sugar and then sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf:
   • Punch down the risen dough and divide into three equal parts. Roll each into a long oval shape. Fold each oval lengthwise and place side by side in a greased loaf pan.
6. Second Rise:
   • Cover the loaf pan and allow the dough to rise for another hour, or until it has puffed up to just above the rim of the pan.
7. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a thermometer inserted into the center reads 190°F (88°C).
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Conclusion: Perfect Pillowy Milk Bread is more than just a treat; it’s a versatile companion to your daily meals. Whether slathered with butter, used for a hearty sandwich, or simply enjoyed plain, each slice offers a soft, comforting texture and a taste that beckons for just one more bite. Delight in the simple pleasure of baking and sharing this wonderful bread with your loved ones.