MILK BREAD RECIPE

• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

Instructions for Making Milk Bread:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast is activated and becomes foamy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter and egg until smooth. Gradually pour the yeast mixture into the wet ingredients while stirring continuously.
4. Make the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Shape the Loaves: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each portion into a loaf. Place the shaped loaves into greased loaf pans or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Second Rise: Cover the shaped loaves again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they double in size.
8. Preheat the Oven: While the loaves are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
9. Bake the Bread: Once the loaves have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
10. Cool and Enjoy: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve your homemade milk bread with your favorite spreads or use it to make sandwiches.

Tips for Making Perfect Milk Bread:

• Use warm milk: Make sure the milk is at the right temperature (110°F or 43°C) to activate the yeast properly.
• Knead the dough thoroughly: Proper kneading is essential for developing gluten and creating a soft, elastic dough.
• Allow time for rising: Be patient and let the dough rise until it doubles in size for the best texture and flavor.
• Bake until golden brown: Keep an eye on the bread while it bakes and remove it from the oven when it’s golden brown on top.

With these simple steps and tips, you can create delicious, homemade milk bread that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of baking and savor the wonderful aroma and taste of freshly baked bread!