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Soft & Fluffy Milk Bread


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  • Author: chef-caterina
  • Total Time: 115 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (approximately 12 slices) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A comforting, buttery, and sweet bread that’s perfect for any occasion, offering a pillowy texture that delights the senses.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for the tangzhong starter)
  • ¼ cup half and half (115°F)
  • ¼ cup water
  • ½ cup half and half (warmed to 115°F)
  • 1 packet instant yeast
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon dry milk powder
  • 1 large egg (beaten, at room temperature)
  • ¼ cup salted butter (softened)
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned into measuring cup and leveled off)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon water (for the egg wash)
  • 1 large egg (for the egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tangzhong: In a small saucepan, whisk the 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, ¼ cup half and half, and ¼ cup water together over medium heat for about 4 minutes until thickened. Transfer to a plate to cool.
  2. Activate the Yeast: In a stand mixer bowl, mix ½ cup warmed half and half with the yeast and let sit for 2-3 minutes until frothy.
  3. Mix the Dough: Add sugar, dry milk powder, beaten egg, softened butter, 2 ½ cups flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until just combined.
  4. Incorporate the Starter: Add the cooled tangzhong and knead on low speed for 7-10 minutes until greasy and tacky.
  5. First Rise: Transfer to a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
  6. Shape the Loaf: Divide the dough into 4 sections, roll each into 8×5 inches, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
  7. Second Rise: Place rolls in a greased pan, cover, and let rise for 45 minutes.
  8. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F while the dough is rising.
  9. Prepare for Baking: Whisk together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon water, then brush over risen dough.
  10. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
  11. Cool: Let the bread rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Choose high-quality butter and flour for the best flavor. Store in a zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Baking
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg