Fluffy Milk Bread Loaf

Fluffy Milk Bread Loaf is a soft, tender bread known for its light texture and slightly sweet, milky flavor. This classic loaf is incredibly versatile—perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed warm with butter. Made with simple ingredients and enriched with milk and butter, this bread bakes up beautifully golden with a cloud-like crumb that stays soft for days.

Why You’ll Love This Bread

Extra soft and fluffy texture
Mild, slightly sweet flavor
Perfect for sandwiches and toast
Beginner-friendly recipe
Stays fresh longer than regular bread

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2¼ teaspoons instant or active dry yeast
¾ cup warm milk (not hot)
1 large egg, room temperature
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Optional:

1 tablespoon milk or melted butter for brushing the top

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast (if using active dry yeast)

In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
(If using instant yeast, skip this step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.)

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add the milk mixture (or warm milk if using instant yeast) and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. Add the butter and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.

Step 3: First Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Loaf

Punch down the dough and turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Shape into a loaf and place into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover loosely and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy and nearly doubled.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown on top and hollow-sounding when tapped.

If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Step 6: Finish and Cool

Remove the bread from the oven and brush the top with milk or melted butter for a soft, shiny crust. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

Fluffy Milk Bread Loaf is delicious:

As toast with butter and jam
For sandwiches or grilled cheese
With honey or sweet spreads
Used for French toast

Tips for Perfect Milk Bread

Use warm, not hot, milk to protect the yeast
Knead well to develop structure and fluffiness
Let the dough rise fully for the best texture
Bread flour creates an even softer crumb

Storage

Store at room temperature in an airtight bag for up to 3 days
Refrigerate for up to 5 days
Freeze sliced bread for up to 2 months

Soft, Homemade Comfort

This Fluffy Milk Bread Loaf is a wonderful introduction to homemade bread baking. With its pillowy texture and rich flavor, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen.