Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, and egg until well combined.
Form Dough: Add the yeast mixture and the milk mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes with a dough hook attachment.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Loaf
Deflate Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
Shape Dough: Shape the dough into a loaf by flattening it into a rectangle and rolling it tightly from one short end to the other.
Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen above the edge of the pan.
Step 4: Bake the Loaf
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Serve
Slice and Serve: Once the loaf is completely cool, slice it and enjoy. It’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply with butter.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Honey Wheat Bread: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and add 1/4 cup of honey for a delicious honey wheat variation.
Herb and Cheese Bread: Add 1/4 cup of grated cheese and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs to the dough for a savory twist.
Seeded Loaf: Sprinkle the top of the loaf with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or oats before baking for added texture and flavor.
Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
Making a soft loaf of bread at home is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. This versatile recipe can be customized with various flavors and add-ins to suit your taste. Enjoy the fluffy texture and delicious flavor of homemade bread, perfect for any occasion.
Key Takeaway
A soft loaf of bread offers a delicious and satisfying homemade treat that’s perfect for any time of day. This easy-to-follow recipe results in a fluffy and tender loaf that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Enjoy the process of making and savoring this delightful bread with your family and friends!
Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken Casserole
Even though it’s called “Poor Man’s Cubed Steak,” this dish still makes me feel like I’ve won the lottery.
Gourmet Spinach and Ricotta Delight
Family Pulls Out Camera For Proof Of What McDonald’s Put On All Of Their Sandwiches
How to Clean Grout Without Bleach: A Simple Method to Remove Dirt and Grime from Tile Grout
Verliere 10 kg in 30 Tagen, ein wahrer Fettkiller
Discover the Delight: A Vegan Lentil Recipe That Rivals Meat
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Pasta
20 plants that flourish in cheap 5-gallon buckets
