This simple and delicious bread recipe has become a staple in many households, including mine, where I make it twice a week. It’s easy to prepare and results in a soft, fluffy bread with a delightful scallion butter filling. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a side dish, this bread is sure to impress everyone who tries it.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 300g (2 cups) bread flour or wheat flour
- 1 egg
- 140g (0.6 cup) milk
- 12g (1 tablespoon) sugar
- 3g (1 teaspoon) yeast
- 3g (1/2 teaspoon) salt
- 30g (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter
For the Filling:
- 80g (5 tablespoons) butter
- Black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Chopped scallions
- Egg wash (1 egg, beaten)
- Sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine 140g (0.6 cup) milk, 12g (1 tablespoon) sugar, 1 egg, and 3g (1 teaspoon) yeast. Mix well.
- Add 300g (2 cups) flour and 3g (1/2 teaspoon) salt to the mixture. Stir until it forms a dough.
- Knead the dough with your hands until it’s somewhat smooth. It doesn’t have to be perfectly smooth.
2. First Rise:
- Cover the dough and let it rise for about 20 minutes.
3. Incorporate Butter:
- Soften 30g (2 tablespoons) unsalted butter.
- Knead the butter into the dough until smooth.
4. Second Rise:
- Shape the dough into a round ball.
- Cover and let it rise for about 40 minutes, or until doubled in size.
5. Prepare the Filling:
- Melt 80g (5 tablespoons) butter in the microwave for 1 minute.
- Add black pepper, salt, and chopped scallions to the melted butter. Mix well.
6. Shape the Bread:
- After the second rise, deflate the dough.
- Roll out the dough into a large sheet and shape it into a rectangle.
- Spread the scallion butter evenly over the top of the dough.
- Roll the dough up from one side and pinch the edges tightly.
- Cut the rolled dough into small pieces.
7. Final Rise:
- Place the pieces in a baking dish.
- Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise for another 40 minutes, or until doubled in size.
8. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Brush the surface of the dough with an egg wash.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- Bake for about 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
9. Serve:
- Let the bread cool slightly before removing it from the pan.
- Enjoy directly or with a layer of sugar for extra sweetness.
This bread is incredibly soft and fluffy, and it’s a favorite in our family. Give it a try and see how delicious it is!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and Fluffy: The bread is incredibly soft and fluffy, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
- Versatile: This bread can be enjoyed on its own, with a layer of sugar for extra sweetness, or as a complement to savory dishes.
- Flavorful Filling: The scallion butter filling adds a burst of flavor that makes this bread truly special.
- Homemade Goodness: There’s nothing like the taste and aroma of freshly baked bread, and this recipe delivers just that.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Bread Flour:
- High in Protein: Bread flour has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, which helps in developing the gluten structure needed for chewy, well-risen bread.
- Energy Source: Provides carbohydrates that are essential for energy.
Milk:
- Calcium: Rich in calcium, which is important for bone health.
- Vitamins: Contains vitamins such as B2 and B12, which support overall health.
Eggs:
- Protein: Eggs are a great source of high-quality protein, necessary for muscle repair and growth.
- Nutrients: They provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, B12, and choline.
Butter:
- Flavor: Adds richness and flavor to the bread.
- Fat: Provides essential fats needed for energy and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Scallions:
- Vitamins and Minerals: Scallions are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate.
- Antioxidants: Contain antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
Cooking Tips
- Proper Kneading: Knead the dough until it’s smooth to ensure the bread has a good structure and rises well.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature ingredients to help the dough rise more effectively.
- Rising Time: Allow sufficient time for both rises to ensure the bread develops a good texture and flavor.
- Egg Wash: Brushing the bread with an egg wash before baking gives it a beautiful golden color and a shiny finish.
- Checking Doneness: To check if the bread is done, tap the bottom of the loaf. It should sound hollow.
Customization Ideas
Flavor Variations:
- Herbs: Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese over the filling before rolling up the dough for a cheesy twist.
Filling Alternatives:
- Garlic Butter: Replace the scallion butter with garlic butter for a different flavor profile.
- Sweet Fillings: Use cinnamon and sugar or chocolate spread for a sweet version of this bread.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Soup: Serve this bread alongside a bowl of hot soup for a comforting meal.
- Sandwiches: Use slices of this bread to make delicious sandwiches.
- Toast: Toast slices of the bread and spread with your favorite jam or butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour? Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but bread flour will give you a better texture due to its higher protein content.
How do I store leftover bread? Store leftover bread in an airtight container or a bread bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
What if I don’t have scallions? You can use finely chopped onions or chives as a substitute for scallions.
Final Thoughts
This simple and delicious bread recipe is a wonderful addition to any baking repertoire. Its soft, fluffy texture and flavorful scallion butter filling make it a hit at any meal. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade bread and share it with your loved ones!