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Soft and Fluffy Homemade Bread Recipe


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4.2 from 33 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (10–12 slices)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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