Milk Bread Recipe

Bread flour: Provides the necessary structure and chewiness to the bread.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps feed the yeast.

Active dry yeast: Leavens the bread, making it rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the bread.

Warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture to the dough.

Heavy cream: Adds richness and tenderness to the bread.

Egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.

Unsalted butter: Adds flavor and tenderness to the bread.

Egg wash: Gives the bread a shiny, golden brown crust.

When kneading the dough, make sure to use the heel of your hand to push it away from you, then fold it back over itself. This helps develop the gluten structure, resulting in a soft and fluffy milk bread. If the dough feels too sticky, lightly dust your hands and the work surface with flour, but be careful not to add too much, as this can make the bread dense.

• bread flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used in place of bread flour, though the texture may be slightly less chewy due to the lower protein content.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a touch of sweetness and moisture, but reduce the liquid in the recipe slightly to compensate for the extra moisture.

• active dry yeast - Substitute with instant yeast: Instant yeast can be used in place of active dry yeast, and it does not need to be dissolved in water first. Use the same amount.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used, but you may need to adjust the quantity slightly as it is less dense than table salt.

• warm milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

• heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free alternative, adding a subtle coconut flavor and richness.

• large egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoon water) can be used for a vegan option, though it may slightly affect the texture.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a non-dairy alternative, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

• large egg for egg wash - Substitute with milk: Milk can be used for a lighter egg wash alternative, providing a similar sheen without the egg.

• Allow the milk bread to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the bread soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the milk bread in a bread box or wrap it in a clean kitchen towel. This will keep the bread fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature.

• To extend the freshness, wrap the milk bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Then, place it in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container. This method can keep the bread fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature.

• For freezing, first slice the milk bread if you plan to use it one slice at a time. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need.

• Wrap each slice or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no air pockets. Follow this by wrapping in aluminum foil or placing in a resealable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the package with the date of freezing. Milk bread can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.

• When ready to use, thaw the milk bread at room temperature. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds or toast them directly from the freezer.

• If you prefer a warm loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the frozen milk bread in aluminum foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Avoid refrigerating the milk bread as it can dry out the bread and make it stale faster. Room temperature or freezing are the best options for maintaining its soft, fluffy texture.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the milk bread in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and soft.

• For a quick reheat, use a microwave. Place a slice of milk bread on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 10-20 seconds. Check and add more time if needed.

• Use a toaster oven for a slightly crispy exterior. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the milk bread directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm and slightly toasted.

• If you have a steamer, you can reheat the milk bread to retain its soft texture. Place the bread in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes until heated through.

• For a stovetop method, use a skillet. Heat the skillet over medium-low heat. Place the milk bread in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warm and slightly crispy.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine and mix all the ingredients together.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the precise amount of flour, sugar, milk, and cream.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring smaller quantities like yeast and salt.

• Whisk: Useful for beating the egg and mixing the wet ingredients.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for initially mixing the dough before kneading.

• Stand mixer: Optional but helpful for kneading the dough more efficiently.

• Dough scraper: Handy for handling and shaping the dough.

• Loaf pan: A greased pan where the dough will be placed for the final rise and baking.

• Plastic wrap: Used to cover the dough during the rising periods to keep it from drying out.

• Pastry brush: For applying the egg wash on top of the loaf before baking.

• Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for baking the bread.

• Cooling rack: To cool the bread after it comes out of the oven.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth workflow.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can save time and effort when kneading the dough.

Warm environment: Let the dough rise in a warm place to speed up the rising process.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while the dough is rising for the second time.

Egg wash ready: Prepare the egg wash in advance so it's ready to brush on the loaf before baking.