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Dorothy Thomas

Milk Bread Recipe

Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, this Milk Bread is a classic homemade loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying plain. Made with simple ingredients, it has a tender crumb and a delicate milky flavor.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 1 12
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: International, Japanese-style
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

  • (320g) 2 ½ cups  Bread flour (or all-purpose flour)
  • (50g) ¼ cup  Granulated sugar
  • (5g) 1 tsp  Salt
  • (7g) 2 ¼ tsp Instant yeast (or active dry yeast*)
  • (120ml) ½ cup  Warm whole milk (110°F/45°C)
  • (60ml) ¼ cup Warm water
  • 1 Large egg (room temperature)
  • (45g) 3 tbsp Unsalted butter (softened)
  • (15ml) 1 tbsp Milk or egg wash (for brushing)

Equipment

  • Stand mixer (or hand mixer with dough hooks)
  • Loaf pan (9x5 inches)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Plastic wrap
  • Pastry brush

Method
 

  1. In a stand mixer bowl, whisk flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
  2. Add warm milk, water, and egg. Mix on low speed until combined.
  3. Gradually add softened butter, then knead on medium speed for 8–10 mins until smooth and elastic (or by hand for 15 mins).
  4. Shape dough into a ball, place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled.
  5. Punch down dough, then divide into 3 equal parts. Roll each into a smooth ball.
  6. Flatten each ball into an oval, fold the sides inward, then roll tightly into a log.
  7. Place all three logs seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.
  8. Cover with a damp towel and let rise for 45–60 mins until dough reaches the pan’s rim.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  10. Brush the top with milk or egg wash for a golden crust.
  11. Bake for 25–30 mins until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  12. Let cool in the pan for 10 mins, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

✅ For extra softness, use tangzhong method (mix 3 tbsp flour + ½ cup water/milk, cook to a paste, then add to dough).
✅ Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month.
✅ Substitute heavy cream for milk for a richer flavor.