Soft Milk Bread Recipe

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Soft Milk Bread Recipe – Fluffy, Buttery, and Irresistible

If you’ve ever dreamed of making soft, pillowy milk bread at home, this simple recipe is for you. With its tender crumb, delicate sweetness, and rich buttery aroma, this bread is perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter and jam. It’s easy to make, beginner-friendly, and tastes just like bakery-style bread!

Ingredients

  • 150 ml (⅔ cup) warm milk – activates the yeast and adds richness
  • 6 g (2 tsp) active dry yeast – helps the bread rise beautifully
  • 250 g (2 cups) wheat flour – provides structure and softness
  • 50 g (¼ cup) powdered sugar – adds subtle sweetness
  • ¼ tsp salt – balances the flavors
  • 10 g (1 tbsp) milk powder – enhances the milky aroma and texture
  • 15 g (1 tbsp) unsalted butter – makes the bread tender and flavorful
  • 1 egg yolk (for brushing) – gives a golden, shiny finish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, combine warm milk (not hot) with yeast and a pinch of sugar.
  2. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes, until frothy. 🧡 Tip: If your yeast doesn’t foam, it may be inactive—use fresh yeast for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, salt, and milk powder.
  2. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Add the butter and knead by hand (or with a stand mixer) for 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Add 1–2 tsp of flour if needed.

Step 3: First Rise

  1. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl.
  2. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth.
  3. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Bread

  1. Punch down the risen dough to release air.
  2. Transfer to a floured surface and divide if making smaller loaves or rolls.
  3. Shape into a smooth oval or place into a greased loaf pan.

Step 5: Second Rise

  1. Cover again and let the shaped dough rest for 30–40 minutes, or until puffy and nearly doubled.

Step 6: Brush & Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. Brush the top gently with egg yolk for a glossy golden crust.
  3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

  1. Remove from the oven and brush lightly with melted butter (optional) for extra shine.
  2. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Tips for the Perfect Soft Milk Bread

  • Use high-quality butter for richer flavor.
  • Don’t overbake—the bread should stay light and soft.
  • You can replace powdered sugar with granulated sugar if preferred.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight bag at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer.

Serving Ideas

  • Serve warm with butter and jam.
  • Make French toast or sweet bread pudding.
  • Use it for sandwiches or sliders.

🥛 Soft, Fluffy, and Simply Delicious

This Soft Milk Bread recipe is everything homemade bread should be—rich, airy, and melt-in-your-mouth good. Whether you’re baking for your family or just for yourself, each slice is a reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly special.

Enjoy your freshly baked bread with a cup of tea or coffee—it’s pure comfort in every bite!

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