Description
This Super Soft Bread Recipe yields a fluffy, tender loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or dinner rolls. Made from simple pantry staples, it features a soft crumb and golden crust thanks to a gentle baking process. Ideal for beginner and experienced bakers alike, this bread offers a homemade touch that’s both delicious and versatile.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup warm water
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture is foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare the dough mixture: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the warm milk, melted butter, remaining sugar, egg, and salt. Stir in the activated yeast mixture to blend all liquids and flavor components evenly.
- Add flour and form dough: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a spoon or dough hook until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms, ensuring not to add too much flour at once to keep the bread tender.
- Knead the dough: Knead by hand or use a dough hook attachment for 8–10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives the bread its structure and softness.
- First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm environment for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it has doubled in size, which ensures a light texture.
- Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf or rolls, then place it in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second rise: Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy, to achieve optimal volume and softness during baking.
- Preheat and bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped, indicating it is cooked through.
- Finish with butter and cool: Remove the bread from the oven and brush the top with melted butter for an ultra-soft finish and added flavor. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to set the crumb.
Notes
- For extra richness, use whole milk and add a splash of cream to the dough.
- This dough is versatile and can be used to make soft dinner rolls or cinnamon rolls.
- Store baked bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
