Soft loaf recipe

 Here’s a wonderful recipe for a Soft Loaf of Bread that’s perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter and jam. This recipe creates a tender and fluffy loaf with a soft crust.

Soft Loaf of Bread Recipe

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:

• In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes foamy and bubbly. This means the yeast is active.

2. Mix the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
• Add the softened butter to the flour mixture and mix it in until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• Pour the yeast mixture into the flour mixture and stir until a dough begins to form.

3. Knead the Dough:

• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour (1 tablespoon at a time) until it’s manageable but still soft.

4. First Rise:

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Loaf:

• Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
• Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a loaf by rolling it into a tight log.
• Place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

6. Second Rise:

• Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen about 1 inch above the top of the pan.

7. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

8. Optional Egg Wash:

• For a glossy finish, beat an egg with a tablespoon of water and gently brush it over the top of the risen loaf. Alternatively, you can brush the top with melted butter for a softer crust.

9. Bake the Bread:

• Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped. An internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) ensures it’s fully baked.

10. Cool and Serve:

• Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
• Turn the loaf out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

This Soft Loaf of Bread is wonderfully tender and perfect for any meal. You can brush the top with butter while it’s still warm for added flavor and softness!