MILK BREAD

Preparation Time: 3 hours (including rising time)
Cooking Intensity: Moderate
Yield: 1 loaf (about 12 slices)

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups bread flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon instant yeast
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons milk powder (optional)

Instructions:
1. Preparation:

1. Warm the Milk and Water:
   • In a small saucepan, warm the milk and water until they are just slightly warm to the touch (about 100-110°F or 37-43°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, instant yeast, and milk powder (if using).

2. Making the Dough:

1. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Add the warm milk mixture, softened butter, and egg to the dry ingredients.
   • Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the Dough:
   • Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   • Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment to knead the dough for about 7 minutes.
3. First Rise:
   • Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.