Soft Loaf of Bread
This is a fantastic recipe for soft loaf bread that is great for toast, sandwiches, or just eating with butter and jam. This recipe yields a delicate crusted loaf that is fluffy and tender.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 egg (optional, for brushing on top)
- Extra melted butter for brushing (optional)
Instructions:
1. Proof the Yeast:
Combine the sugar and the heated milk in a small bowl. After scattering the yeast on top, let it rest for five to ten minutes, or until the yeast starts to froth and bubble. The yeast is hence active.
2. Mix the Dough:
Flour and salt should be combined in a large mixing dish.
To the flour mixture, add the softened butter and stir until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
Once a dough starts to form, pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and stir.
3. Work the Dough:
After transferring the dough onto a surface dusted with flour, knead it for eight to ten minutes, or until it becomes elastic and smooth. One spoonful at a time, add a little more flour to the dough if it’s too sticky so that it’s workable but still soft.
4. Initially Rising:
After putting the dough in a bowl that has been gently oiled, cover it with plastic wrap or a fresh kitchen towel.
area the dough in a warm area and let it rise until it doubles in size, approximately 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
5. Form the Loaf:
Punch down the dough to release the air once it has risen.
Place the dough onto a surface dusted with flour, then carefully roll it into a tight log shape to form a loaf.
Put the formed dough into a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan that has been oiled.
6. The Second Ascent
Once again, the loaf should rise for 30 to 45 minutes, or until it is approximately 1 inch beyond the top of the pan. Cover the loaf with a cloth during this time.
7. Get the oven ready:
Set the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
8. Elective Egg Cleaning:
Lightly brush the top of the risen bread with a mixture of one tablespoon water and egg to give it a glossy appearance. For a softer crust, you may also use melted butter to brush the top.
9. Prepare the Bread:
The loaf should be baked for 30 to 35 minutes in a preheated oven, or until the top is golden brown and it sounds hollow when touched. When cooked to an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C), it is done.
10. Let cool and proceed to serve:
After taking the bread out of the oven, let it cool for ten minutes in the pan.
Before slicing, turn the loaf out onto a wire rack and allow cool fully.
Ideal for any meal, this Soft Loaf of Bread is very delicate. When still warm, you may use butter to brush the top for more flavour and tenderness!