Description:
A delightfully fluffy and tender soft loaf that’s perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or enjoying on its own. With its pillowy texture and slightly sweet flavor, this versatile bread is sure to become a household favorite.
Origin:
Soft loaf bread is a staple in many cultures, known for its light, airy texture and versatility. Popular in Western-style bakeries, it’s often used for making classic sandwiches or enjoyed with butter and jam.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups (400g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) instant yeast
- 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Egg Wash (Optional):
- 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
- Add the warm milk, warm water, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook and knead for 6-8 minutes.
First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a loaf by flattening it into a rectangle and rolling it tightly. Pinch the seam closed.
- Place the shaped dough seam-side down into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Second Rise:
- Cover the loaf pan with a towel and let the dough rise again in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until it rises just above the edge of the pan.
Bake the Loaf:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the loaf with the egg wash for a glossy finish, if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool and Serve:
- Remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Success:
- For an even softer loaf, replace some or all of the milk with buttermilk or use milk powder and water.
- Be careful not to over-flour the dough; a slightly sticky dough yields a softer texture.
- Store the loaf in a sealed bag or container to keep it fresh for several days.
Recommendations:
- Serve this loaf as a base for your favorite sandwiches, or toast it and enjoy with butter and honey.
- For added flavor, mix in herbs, cheese, or raisins before shaping the dough.
Nutrition (per slice, approximate for 12 slices):
- Calories: ~150
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
This Soft Loaf is a timeless classic, ideal for every meal of the day. Its fluffy texture and rich flavor make it an irresistible treat for any bread lover! ✨
