How to Make Soft & Fluffy Milk Bread
Step 1: Mix the Dough
🌀 In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
🥛 Add the warm milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until a dough forms.
Step 2: Knead Until Smooth
💪 Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
👐 Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3: Let It Rise
⏳ Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
🥖 Punch down the dough to release air.
🍞 Shape it into a loaf and place it into a greased loaf pan.
Step 5: Second Rise
🌤 Cover the pan and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes until it puffs up beautifully.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
🔥 Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
🥯 Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown on top.
Step 7: Cool & Enjoy!
🌬 Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes.
🧊 Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Best Milk Bread
✔ Use Warm Milk (Not Hot!) – This helps activate the yeast without killing it.
✔ Cover While Rising – Keeps the dough from drying out.
✔ Brush with Butter – For an extra soft, golden crust.
✔ Make it Sweeter – Add an extra tablespoon of sugar for a richer flavor.
How to Serve This Soft & Fluffy Bread
🥞 Toast It – Slather with butter and jam.
🍯 Drizzle with Honey – For a lightly sweet treat.
🍓 Make a French Toast – This bread soaks up batter beautifully!
🥪 Use for Sandwiches – Soft, fluffy, and perfect for fillings.
FAQs About Milk Bread
Q: Can I make this without butter?
A: Yes! Swap butter for vegetable oil for a lighter version.
Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
A: Yes! Just activate it first in warm milk with sugar before adding it to the flour.
Q: How do I store homemade milk bread?
A: Keep it in an airtight container at room temp for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months!
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
⭐ No kneading, no eggs, no butter—yet incredibly soft!
⭐ Perfect balance of sweetness & fluffiness.
⭐ Easy for beginners & quick to make!
⭐ Great for toasting, snacking, or making sandwiches.
