Bread with milk

Milk Bread – a fluffy and aromatic delight

Milk bread is a classic recipe that evokes pleasant childhood memories. Its sweet aroma and fluffy texture make it perfect for any meal. Whether you serve it at breakfast alongside jams and butter, or as an accompaniment to a warm soup, this bread will delight your senses. Get ready to bring a touch of magic to your kitchen!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 slices

Ingredients:

- 280 ml milk (whole milk is ideal for a richer taste)
- 130 ml water
- 2 tablespoons butter (unsalted, for a milder flavor)
- 675 g flour (for best results, use type 650 flour)
- 2 teaspoons salt (salt helps develop flavors)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (helps activate the yeast)
- 1 ½ teaspoons dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast)

Preparation:

1. Heating the ingredients: Start by warming the milk in a saucepan. Add the water and diced butter. Stir gently until the butter melts. It’s important for the mixture to be warm but not hot – an ideal temperature would be around 37-40°C, to activate the yeast without killing it.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, pour the warm milk and water mixture. Add the flour until it covers the liquid. Place the salt on the edge of the bowl, the sugar in the center, and the yeast on top of the sugar. This step is essential to ensure even activation of the yeast.

3. Kneading: Use a spatula or your hands to combine the ingredients. When the dough begins to come together, knead for about 10 minutes. If you are using a mixer with a dough hook, this process will be much easier. The dough should be elastic and slightly sticky.

4. Rising: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place until it doubles in size – about 1-1.5 hours.

5. Shaping the bread: After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured work surface. Gently knead to release the air. Shape it into a ball or loaf, according to your preference. Use the end of a wooden spoon to create a cross-shaped incision on the surface of the bread. This step is not only decorative but also helps with even baking.

6. Preparing for baking: Brush the surface of the bread with a little milk for a golden crust, then lightly sprinkle flour on top. You can also add sesame or poppy seeds for a special appearance and taste.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 220°C. Place the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it rise for about 20 minutes while the oven heats up. Bake the bread for 30 minutes or until it is golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cooling: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a rack. This step is important to prevent steam from forming on the bottom, which can make the bread soggy.

Serving suggestions: Milk bread can be enjoyed warm, sliced, alongside butter and honey, or with a slice of cheese. It is also delicious with a warm soup or a hearty sauce.

Variations and tips: You can experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or rye flour, for a more complex flavor. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional information: A slice of milk bread contains approximately 120 calories, providing carbohydrates for energy, proteins for muscle development, and healthy fats from the butter. It is an excellent choice for a nourishing breakfast or a comforting snack.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use fresh yeast? Yes, you can substitute dry yeast with 25 g of fresh yeast. Dissolve the yeast in the warm milk before adding it to the mixture.

2. How can I store the bread? The bread stores well in a paper bag or an airtight container at room temperature. You can freeze it to keep it longer.

3. What drinks pair well with milk bread? This bread pairs wonderfully with flavored tea or a cappuccino, adding an extra touch of flavor to breakfast.

So, don’t hesitate! Put on your apron and start your kitchen adventure with this simple yet love-filled recipe. We promise you’ll create a special bread that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 280 ml milk, 130 ml water, 2 tablespoons butter, 675 g flour, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 and a half teaspoons dry yeast (or one fresh cube)

 Tags:  bread