Milk bread is soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet with a rich, buttery flavor. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, requiring just a few pantry staples like milk, flour, and yeast. Its gooey cheese filling and golden crust make it a comforting treat, ideal for breakfast, snacks, or served alongside meals. Let’s dive into the simple steps for making this delicious homemade milk bread.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 300ml milk – The primary liquid that helps form a soft, tender crumb.
- 10g dry yeast – Leavening agent that makes the dough rise.
- 20g granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and feeds the yeast for better rise.
- 30ml vegetable oil – Adds moisture and softness to the bread.
- 400g wheat flour (sifted) – Essential for structure, sifted to aerate and prevent clumps.
- 5g salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 50ml melted butter – Adds a rich, buttery flavor to the bread.
- 200g cheese – Provides a delicious, melty filling.
- 1 egg (for brushing) – Gives the bread a golden, glossy finish.
- Sesame seeds – Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch.
Instructions
1. Warm the Milk and Activate the Yeast:
Warm the 300ml milk in a saucepan over low heat until lukewarm. Add 10g dry yeast and 20g sugar to the milk. Stir and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, ensuring the yeast is properly activated.
2. Add Oil to the Milk Mixture:
Once the yeast is activated, stir in 30ml vegetable oil into the milk mixture.
3. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, sift 400g wheat flour and add 5g salt. Stir to combine and ensure there are no clumps.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Slowly pour the milk mixture into the flour. Stir with a spoon or your hands until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. First Rise:
Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Roll and Add Butter and Cheese:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Roll the dough out into a rectangle. Brush 50ml melted butter on top, then evenly sprinkle 200g cheese on the dough.
7. Roll and Cut the Dough:
Roll the dough into a tube shape and cut it into 5-6 equal parts.
8. Second Rise:
Place the dough pieces on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Let them rest for 10 minutes.
9. Egg Wash and Sesame Seeds:
Brush the tops with 1 beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
10. Bake:
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- Warm Milk: Make sure the milk is only lukewarm, as hot milk can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
- Kneading: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the dough, which contributes to the soft texture of the bread.
- Cheese Options: You can substitute the cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend for different flavors.
- Rest Time: Allow the dough enough time to rise, as this contributes to the fluffiness of the bread.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace milk with almond milk and use dairy-free butter and cheese.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of wheat flour and ensure the yeast is gluten-free.
- Herbed Bread: Add finely chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for added flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Protein: Cheese and milk are great sources of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- Calcium-Rich: The combination of milk and cheese provides calcium, which supports bone health.
- Comfort Food: Ideal for cozy breakfasts or snacks, this bread offers both indulgence and comfort.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe contains no meat, making it suitable for vegetarians.
- Customizable for Dietary Needs: Can easily be made gluten-free or dairy-free with substitutions.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I make this bread without yeast?
This recipe relies on yeast to achieve its fluffy texture. Substituting yeast with baking powder will not work as it doesn’t provide the same rise. If you need a quicker alternative, consider making soda bread instead.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time. After the first rise, punch down the dough and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the next steps.
Can I freeze this milk bread?
Yes, this milk bread can be frozen. Once baked, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freezing. To enjoy, simply thaw and reheat in the oven for about 10 minutes at 180°C (350°F).
What kind of cheese can I use?
You can use any cheese that melts well. Mozzarella is a great option for a gooey center, but cheddar, provolone, or even cream cheese would work wonderfully.
How do I store milk bread?
Store leftover milk bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for future use.
Conclusion
This milk bread recipe delivers a soft, fluffy loaf with a savory cheese filling and a golden, crunchy top. It’s perfect for family gatherings, breakfast, or as a side dish. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have fresh, delicious homemade bread in no time. Give this recipe a try, and it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!