Soft and Fluffy Milk Bread Recipe

Introduction

Milk bread, also known as Hokkaido milk bread, is a popular Asian bread renowned for its pillowy texture and subtly sweet flavor.

Its buttery aroma and ultra-soft consistency make it a delightful treat for breakfast, sandwiches, or snacking.

With this recipe, you can recreate the irresistible magic of milk bread right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

To bake this soft and fluffy milk bread, you’ll need:

For the Dough:

3 cups (375g) of all-purpose flour

2 tbsp of sugar

1 tsp of salt

1 tbsp of instant yeast

1 cup (240ml) of warm milk

1 egg

3 tbsp (45g) of unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze:

2 tbsp of milk or melted butter

Instructions

1 Activate the Yeast:

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir in the instant yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active and ready to use.

2. Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter. Mix until the dough starts to come together.

3. Knead the Dough:

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes.

4. First Rise:

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Dough:

Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into equal portions and shape each piece into a roll or desired shape. Arrange the rolls in a greased loaf pan, leaving a small space between each.

6. Second Rise:

Cover the shaped dough with a cloth and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffed up and touching each other.

7. Bake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the dough with milk or melted butter for a golden finish. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

8. Cool and Serve:

Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This milk bread is not just a recipe but a gateway to comforting flavors and textures.

Its soft and fluffy nature is perfect for pairing with butter, jam, or savory fillings.

A simple yet rewarding baking project, this bread will quickly become a family favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, delicious results!