mellow milk toast

How to Make Milk Bread: A Comprehensive Guide

Milk bread, known for its soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness, is a beloved staple worldwide. Here’s a detailed guide to crafting the perfect loaf at home.

Ingredients: You’ll need 300ml warm milk (around 35°C), 40g sugar, 7g active dry yeast, 500g bread flour, 5g salt, and 50g unsalted butter (softened). For enriched versions, add 2 egg yolks to enhance richness.

Steps:

1. Activate Yeast: Mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 10 minutes until frothy.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk flour and salt. Make a well, pour in the yeast mixture, and add egg yolks (if using).

3. Knead: Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for 15–20 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add softened butter gradually, kneading until fully incorporated.

4. First Rise: Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape & Second Rise: Punch down the dough, divide into two equal portions, and shape into loaves. Place them in greased loaf pans, cover, and let rise for another 45 minutes.

6. Bake: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown. Tap the bottom—if it sounds hollow, it’s done. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips: For extra tenderness, brush the tops with milk before baking. Store in an airtight bag to maintain freshness. Enjoy plain or with butter, jam, or your favorite fillings!

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