Prepare the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir well and let it sit for 10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.
Mix the dough:
Add the salt, 30 g of softened butter, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix well until the dough comes together.
Knead the dough:
Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
Let the dough rise:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and leave it in a warm place for 45 minutes or until it doubles in size.
Shape the dough:
After the dough has risen, punch it down and let it rest for another 15 minutes. Sprinkle some flour on a surface, divide the dough into your desired shape (loaf or rolls), and place it in a greased baking tray.
Bake the bread:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Bake the bread for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Brush with butter:
While the bread is still hot, brush the top with the 40 g of melted butter for extra flavor and softness.
Cool and serve:
Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy it warm with your favorite spread or as a side dish.
Serving Suggestions:
This soft milk bread is perfect for sandwiches, toasted with butter, or as a side to soups and salads.
You can also serve it with honey, jam, or cheese for breakfast or as a snack.
Cooking Tips:
Make sure the milk and water are warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast.
Knead the dough well for a soft and fluffy texture.
For a sweeter version, increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons.
Nutritional Benefits:
Homemade bread: Contains fewer preservatives than store-bought bread.
Milk and butter: Provide calcium and healthy fats, which contribute to stronger bones and energy.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian: This bread is suitable for vegetarians.
Contains dairy and gluten: Not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, 1 slice):
Calories: 210
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fats: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Storage:
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat the bread before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Soft and fluffy: This bread has a wonderfully soft texture, perfect for any meal.
Simple ingredients: You likely have all the ingredients in your pantry already.
Quick rise time: You can have fresh, homemade bread in just over an hour.
Versatile: Serve it with sweet or savory toppings for any meal of the day.
Conclusion:
This soft and fluffy homemade milk bread is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves freshly baked bread. With its golden crust and tender interior, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to your favorite dishes. It’s easy to make, requiring only basic ingredients, and the result is a deliciously satisfying loaf. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast. It doesn’t need to be dissolved in water, so you can mix it directly into the flour.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute some or all of the white flour with whole wheat flour, but the bread may be denser.
Can I make this bread vegan?
You can replace butter with vegan margarine and use a plant-based milk alternative like almond or oat milk.
What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
Ensure that your yeast is fresh and that the water and milk are warm but not too hot.
Can I add herbs or spices to the dough?
Yes, adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder can enhance the flavor of the bread.
How can I make the bread sweeter?
Increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons for a sweeter bread, perfect for breakfast.
Can I bake this bread in a loaf pan?
Yes, you can bake it in a loaf pan for a more structured shape.
What is the best way to store leftover bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make more bread. Just be sure to knead the dough well.
What if I don’t have milk?
You can substitute water for milk, though the bread may not be as rich and tender.
