Fluffy Milk Bread Without Starter

This fluffy milk bread is a delightful addition to any meal, boasting a rich and buttery flavor with a hint of sweetness. It's perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or simply enjoying with a smear of butter. The recipe doesn't require a starter, making it accessible for those new to bread baking. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a bread that is both soft and satisfying. The process involves combining dry and wet ingredients, kneading the dough until smooth, and allowing it to rise sufficiently to ensure a light texture. The dough is forgiving, adaptable, and thrives under various conditions, making it a versatile recipe to have on hand. Whether you're serving this bread as a side to your favorite soup or turning it into a delicious sandwich, its comforting taste is sure to impress. Additionally, the recipe includes several tips and variations to cater to different preferences and dietary needs. This homemade bread is a baker's dream, offering a wonderful aroma and taste straight from your oven.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 250 ml milk
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 650 g flour
• 75 g butter
• 7 g dry yeast
• 2 large eggs
• A pinch of salt

Preparation Time

Total Time: 130 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Whisk the eggs with the dry yeast in a mixing bowl. This helps the yeast blend smoothly without forming lumps.
2. Warm the milk to around 45°C. Add the butter to melt within the milk. Alternatively, melt the butter separately if you prefer.
3. Stir in the sugar and salt into the warm milk mixture.
4. Pour the milk mixture into the bowl with the eggs and yeast, stirring until well combined.
5. Gradually add 500 g of flour, stirring with a spoon to incorporate. Sprinkle a handful of flour on top and begin kneading with your hands.
6. Assess the dough's consistency. If it’s too sticky, gradually add more flour until it no longer sticks, but remains soft and fluffy.
7. Knead the dough for a minimum of 5 minutes. Lift and forcefully throw it down into the bowl 4-5 times to enhance softness.
8. Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for one hour. Slightly heating the oven can provide ideal warmth.
9. After an hour, knead the dough again, and let it rise for another hour, covered.
10. Roll out the dough and shape it for baking as desired.
11. *Remember, dry yeast can vary by brand with ±2 g, so feel free to adjust slightly if needed, but 7 g is usually ideal.
12. Ensure there’s no draft in the room during the dough’s rise, and avoid banging doors as this can cause the dough to deflate.
13. The mood matters: attempt to bake in a positive mindset, as kneading technique and outcomes can subtly shift based on your emotional state.

Tips

• Use a digital thermometer to accurately check milk temperature.
• If you prefer a sweeter dough, increase the sugar by an additional tablespoon.
• For a golden crust, brush the top with an egg wash before baking.

Nutritions

• Calories: 205 per serving
• Protein: 6 g
• Fats: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g

Variations

• For a dairy-free version, replace milk with almond milk and butter with a plant-based alternative.
• Integrate herbs or spices such as rosemary or cinnamon for unique flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of herb butter or honey for a sweet touch.
• Pair with a hearty soup such as tomato or vegetable for a comforting meal.

Best Places

1. Breads Bakery – Renowned for its freshly baked varieties and inviting atmosphere. Location: 18 E 16th St, New York, USA.
2. Le Moulin de la Vierge – Classic French bakery offering artisanal bread. Location: 105 Rue Vercingétorix, Paris, France.
3. Pope Joan – Features a distinctive variety of homemade breads and pastries. Location: 77-79 Nicholson St, Melbourne, Australia.
4. The Baking Society – Offers a fabulous range of breads with creative twists. Location: 28 Ganymede St, Liverpool, UK.
5. Honolulu Bake Shop – Known for its island-inspired bread selection. Location: 1236 Wester Rd, Honolulu, USA.
6. Miyarisan Bakery – Tokyo’s favorite for traditional and innovative bread. Location: 3-4-11, Kita Aoyama, Tokyo, Japan.
7. Forno Campo de’ Fiori – Offers exquisite oven-baked goods in the heart of Rome. Location: Campo de' Fiori, Rome, Italy.
8. Bäckerei Siebert – Berlin’s oldest bakery with a rich selection. Location: Schönfließer Str. 12, Berlin, Germany.
9. Pavé – Offers an array of freshly baked artisan breads in São Paulo. Location: Rua Mato Grosso, 400, São Paulo, Brazil.
10. El Panecillo – A cozy Madrid favorite known for its delectable bread. Location: Calle Mayor, 84, Madrid, Spain.