Fluffy Milk Bread

Fluffy Milk Bread

Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk (for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
   • In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, warm water, melted butter, and egg. Make sure the mixture is well blended.
   • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
3. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Dough:
   • Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces and shape each piece into a ball.
   • Arrange the dough balls in a greased loaf pan in two rows of four, as shown in the image.
5. Second Rise:
   • Cover the loaf pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Brush with Milk:
   • Gently brush the top of the risen dough with milk to give it a nice golden brown color when baked.
8. Bake the Bread:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your soft and fluffy milk bread, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying on its own!