Description
Milk Bread Loaf is a deliciously soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet homemade bread known for its tender crumb and golden crust. Made using the tangzhong method, this bakery-style loaf is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed warm with butter. Its unique preparation method ensures it stays fresh and moist for days, making it a comforting staple for any kitchen.
Ingredients
Tangzhong
- 3 tbsp bread flour
- ½ cup whole milk
Dough
- 3 cups bread flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
- ¾ cup warm milk
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Prepare Tangzhong: In a saucepan, whisk together the bread flour and whole milk for the tangzhong. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before using.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 3 cups bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the cooled tangzhong, warm milk, beaten egg, and softened butter into the bowl with dry ingredients. Mix until a rough dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 10 to 12 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Shape Loaf: Punch down the risen dough gently to release air. Shape it into a loaf shape and place it into a greased loaf pan.
- Second Rise: Cover the loaf pan and allow the dough to rise again until it puffs up and nearly doubles in size, about 45 to 60 minutes.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon milk. Brush this egg wash gently over the top of the loaf to help it develop a shiny golden crust.
- Bake Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to allow the crumb to set.
Notes
- The tangzhong method helps produce an exceptionally soft and fluffy texture.
- Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- This milk bread is excellent for making French toast or homemade sandwiches due to its tender crumb.
- If the crust browns too quickly while baking, tent the loaf loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese