Description
This Soft and Fluffy Homemade Bread recipe yields a tender crumb and golden crust with a rich buttery flavor. Perfectly suited for sandwiches, toast, or served warm with butter alongside meals, this bread is a delightful homemade treat that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3½ cups bread flour
- 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1¼ cups warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the bread flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and salt to create a uniform dry mixture.
- Add Wet Ingredients and Form Dough: Pour in the warm milk, softened butter, vegetable oil, and the whole egg. Stir everything together until a cohesive dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, indicating proper gluten development.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
- Punch Down and Shape: Gently punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles, then shape it into a loaf form suitable for your bread pan.
- Second Rise: Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for 45–60 minutes until it nearly doubles in size.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg. This step will give your bread a shiny, golden crust after baking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 30–35 minutes, or until it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool: Remove the loaf from the oven and transfer it onto a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and the best texture.
Notes
- Using bread flour ensures a soft and tender texture thanks to its higher protein content.
- For a softer crust, brush the warm loaf with melted butter immediately after baking.
- Store the bread in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American