Goodbye to Store-Bought Bread

Are you tired of the same old store-bought bread that lacks freshness and flavor? Say hello to homemade goodness with this super soft milk bread recipe that will elevate your baking game to new heights! Not only is this bread incredibly soft and fluffy, but it’s also made without the need for an oven, making it accessible to anyone with a stovetop. With just a handful of simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked bread in no time. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!

Ingredients:

• Warm milk: 150ml
• White sugar: 25g (2 tablespoons)
• Active dry yeast: 3g (1 teaspoon)
• Egg: 1
• All-purpose or bread flour: 300g
• Salt: 3g (0.5 teaspoon)
• Unsalted butter: 30g (2 tablespoons)
• Unsalted butter: 5g (for greasing the baking pan)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a small bowl, combine warm milk, white sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently to dissolve the sugar and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg and the foamy yeast mixture until well combined.
   • Add the flour and salt to the bowl, then mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
   • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10-15 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
4. Incorporate the Butter:
   • Add the unsalted butter to the dough and continue kneading until the butter is fully incorporated and the dough becomes smooth and shiny.
5. Let the Dough Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. Shape the Dough:
   • Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air bubbles.
   • Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and shape them into balls.
7. Cook the Bread:
   • Heat a non-stick frying pan or skillet over medium-low heat.
   • Grease the pan with a small amount of unsalted butter.
   • Place the shaped dough balls in the pan, leaving some space between each one.
   • Cover the pan with a lid and let the bread cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the bottom.
8. Flip and Cook:
   • Carefully flip the bread balls over using a spatula, then cover the pan again and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is cooked through and golden brown on both sides.
9. Cool and Serve:
   • Once the bread is cooked, transfer it to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Customize the Flavor: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough for extra flavor.
• Add Toppings: Brush the cooked bread with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds or poppy seeds before serving for added texture and flavor.
• Make it Sweet: For a sweeter version of this bread, increase the amount of sugar to your liking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. However, you may need to adjust the amount used, as instant yeast is typically more potent. Use about 25% less instant yeast than active dry yeast called for in the recipe.
2. Can I bake this bread in the oven instead of on the stovetop? Absolutely! If you prefer to bake the bread in the oven, shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Let it rise for a second time, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. How should I store the leftover bread? Store any leftover bread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze the bread for longer storage.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For a keto or low-carb version of this bread, you can substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the all-purpose flour and use a low-carb sweetener instead of sugar. Adjust the quantities as needed to achieve the desired texture and flavor.

With this simple and delicious recipe for super soft milk bread, you can say goodbye to store-bought bread forever! Whether you’re enjoying it fresh off the stovetop or toasted with your favorite toppings, this homemade bread is sure to impress. So why wait? Start baking your own bread today and experience the joy of homemade goodness in every bite. Happy baking!