Delicious Milk Bread Recipe

This Soft and Delicious Milk Bread is a light, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread that makes the perfect addition to any meal or as a standalone snack. The milk and milk powder in the recipe provide a soft, moist crumb while adding a rich flavor to the bread. It’s an easy-to-follow recipe, and the result is a loaf with a delicate texture and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, a sandwich, or simply to enjoy with butter, this milk bread will be sure to impress.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Proofing Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours

Cuisine

This recipe is inspired by classic soft breads that are popular in many cultures, particularly in European and Asian baking traditions. Milk bread, also known as “Hokkaido milk bread” in Japanese baking, is renowned for its pillowy texture and mild sweetness, making it a beloved choice for both savory and sweet dishes.

Full List of Ingredients

• 120 ml milk (about 1/2 cup)
• 6 g yeast (about 2 tsp)
• 250 g wheat flour (about 2 cups)
• 50 g powdered sugar (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 10 g milk powder (about 2 tsp)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Activate the Yeast
   In a small bowl, warm the 120 ml of milk slightly (it should be lukewarm, not hot). Sprinkle the 6 g of yeast into the milk and stir gently. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a large bowl, combine the 250 g of wheat flour, 50 g of powdered sugar, 1/4 tsp of salt, and 10 g of milk powder. Stir the ingredients together to ensure they are well mixed.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
   Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Once the dough begins to form, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.

4. First Proofing
   Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

5. Shape the Dough
   After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle. Fold the dough into thirds, then roll it into a log shape, sealing the edges as you go.

6. Second Proofing
   Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover the pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the top of the pan.

7. Bake the Bread
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cool and Serve
   Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice the bread and serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 3 g
• Fat: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 21 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Milk bread is a beloved bread variety in many parts of the world, especially in Japan, where it is referred to as “Hokkaido milk bread.” Known for its soft, fluffy texture and slight sweetness, it has become popular globally. The recipe uses ingredients such as milk powder and yeast to achieve the signature lightness of the bread. Milk bread is often enjoyed for its versatility and ability to complement both sweet and savory dishes.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Soft and Fluffy: This bread has a pillowy texture that is irresistibly soft and light.
2. Perfect for Any Meal: Whether you’re making sandwiches, enjoying it with butter, or eating it on its own, this bread is perfect for any occasion.
3. Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you can easily make this delicious bread at home.
4. Versatile: The mild sweetness makes it perfect for both savory and sweet toppings or fillings.
5. Impressive Homemade Bread: The texture and appearance of this milk bread will impress anyone, making it a great choice for entertaining or family meals.

Health Benefits

1. Good Source of Protein: The bread contains protein from the wheat flour and milk powder, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
2. Calcium-Rich: Milk powder adds calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
3. Low in Fat: This bread is relatively low in fat, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought options that are often loaded with unhealthy fats.
4. Easily Digestible: The light texture of the bread makes it easy to digest, which is ideal for those with sensitive stomachs.
5. No Preservatives: This homemade bread is free of preservatives, making it a healthier option compared to many packaged breads.

Serving Suggestions

1. With Jam or Honey: Spread your favorite jam, honey, or butter on a slice of milk bread for a sweet breakfast or snack.
2. As a Sandwich: Use this soft bread for making sandwiches with cheese, deli meats, or fresh veggies.
3. With Soup: This bread pairs perfectly with soup, especially creamy or tomato-based soups.
4. As French Toast: Use this bread to make decadent French toast for a special breakfast or brunch.

Cooking Tips

1. Don’t Overmix the Dough: When mixing the dough, be sure to knead just until the dough is smooth. Overmixing can lead to denser bread.
2. Proof the Dough in a Warm Area: For best results, let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area to ensure it doubles in size.
3. Test the Bread for Doneness: Tap the bottom of the loaf after baking. If it sounds hollow, it’s ready.
4. Cool Completely: Let the bread cool completely before slicing to ensure it holds its shape.

Variations to Try

1. Add Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter variation, add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough before baking.
2. Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute some or all of the wheat flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly healthier and heartier bread.
3. Add Cinnamon: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for a spiced version of the bread.
4. Stuff with Fillings: Try adding fillings like cheese, ham, or fruit to the dough before baking for a delicious stuffed milk bread.

Conclusion

This Soft and Delicious Milk Bread is a perfect recipe for anyone looking to make homemade bread that is soft, fluffy, and full of flavor. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious loaf that’s perfect for any meal or occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain, with toppings, or as a sandwich, this bread is sure to become a family favorite.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
   Yes, you can substitute almond milk for regular milk, but it may slightly affect the texture and flavor of the bread.

2. Can I freeze this bread?
   Yes, you can freeze the bread after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in a freezer bag.

3. How long does this bread stay fresh?
   This bread is best eaten within 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

4. Can I make this recipe without milk powder?
   If you don’t have milk powder, you can substitute it with a little extra milk, but the texture may change slightly.

5. Can I make this bread without yeast?
   This recipe relies on yeast for its light texture. You could try a baking powder version, but the results will be different.

6. What can I do if the dough isn’t rising?
   Make sure the yeast is fresh and active. If the dough isn’t rising, check if the room is warm enough for the yeast to activate.

7. Can I add fruit to the dough?
   Yes, you can add raisins, currants, or dried fruit to the dough for extra sweetness.

8. Can I use a bread machine to make this?
   Yes, you can use a bread machine for mixing and kneading the dough. Just follow the machine’s instructions for dough making.

9. Can I add nuts to this bread?
   Yes, you can add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture.

10. How can I make the bread even softer?
    To make the bread even softer, try adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil or increase the milk content slightly for extra moisture.