1. Prepare the Tangzhong:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the bread flour and whole milk until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
2. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm whole milk and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
3. Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the bread flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the activated yeast mixture, tangzhong, eggs, and softened butter to the dry ingredients.
- Mix on low speed until a rough dough forms, then increase the speed to medium and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. First Proofing:
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape and Second Proofing:
- Once the dough has doubled in size, gently deflate it and divide it into equal portions.
- Shape each portion into a ball and place them in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover the pan with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough proof for another 1-2 hours, or until puffy and almost doubled in size.
6. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and whole milk to make the egg wash.
- Gently brush the egg wash over the tops of the proofed dough.
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Experience the Delight of Homemade Milk Bread
With its soft and fluffy texture and subtle sweetness, our Milk Bread recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a pat of butter or used to make sandwiches or French toast, this bread is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.
