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Soft Vanilla Milk Bread

Soft Vanilla Milk Bread is a light, fluffy, and subtly sweet bread that is perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a delightful snack. With its rich vanilla aroma and pillowy texture, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you enjoy it plain, dusted with icing sugar, or paired with jam, this recipe is an excellent addition to your baking collection.


Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 230 ml lukewarm milk – Helps activate the yeast and keeps the dough soft.
  • ½ tbsp sugar – Provides slight sweetness and helps feed the yeast.
  • 1 egg – Adds richness and structure to the bread.
  • 8 g vanilla sugar – Enhances the bread with a sweet vanilla aroma.
  • ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and improves flavor.
  • 360 g flour – The main structure of the bread, providing texture and body.
  • 8 g dried yeast – The leavening agent that makes the bread rise.
  • 31 g butter (softened) – Gives the bread a rich, tender texture.

For Finishing

  • Icing sugar – For a light, sweet dusting on top.
  • Oil (for frying) – If you choose to fry rather than bake.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

  1. In a small bowl, add lukewarm milk and sugar.
  2. Sprinkle the dried yeast over the mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is active.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg and add the vanilla sugar.
  2. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

  1. Add flour and salt to the wet mixture.
  2. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

  1. Add softened butter and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic.
  • By Hand: Knead for about 5-7 minutes.
  • Using a Stand Mixer: Mix for 3-4 minutes with a dough hook attachment.

Step 5: First Rest (Proofing)

  1. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

  1. Punch down the dough to release any air bubbles.
  2. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape them into small balls or rolls.
  3. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Step 7: Second Rest

  1. Cover the shaped dough with a kitchen towel and let it rest for another 15 minutes.

Step 8: Cook the Bread

Option 1: Baking Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake the bread for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Option 2: Frying Method (For Doughnuts)

  1. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (180°C).
  2. Carefully place a few doughnuts into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
  3. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  4. Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
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Step 9: Dust with Icing Sugar

  • Once the bread has cooled slightly, dust with icing sugar for a light, sweet finish.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic & Simple – Enjoy warm with a pat of butter or honey.
  • Sweet Twist – Spread with jam, fruit preserves, or Nutella.
  • Pair with Beverages – Serve with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or milk.

Cooking Tips

  • Check Dough Consistency – If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until smooth.
  • Use Warm Milk – The milk should be around 100°F (38°C) to properly activate the yeast.
  • Vanilla Substitutes – If you don’t have vanilla sugar, use 1 tsp vanilla extract instead.
  • Don’t Overcrowd While Frying – Fry in small batches to maintain even cooking.

Substitutions and Variations

Dairy-Free Version

  • Replace milk with almond, soy, or oat milk.
  • Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.

Different Flavors

  • Chocolate Vanilla Bread – Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to the flour for a chocolate twist.
  • Cinnamon Sugar Bread – After baking or frying, roll the warm bread in a cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Alternative Shapes

  • Braided Bread – Divide the dough into three strands and braid it before baking.
  • Stuffed Rolls – Fill each dough ball with chocolate, jam, or custard before sealing.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight.

2. How do I store leftover bread?

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days. Warm before serving.
  • Freezer: Wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before eating.

3. Can I reheat the bread?

Yes!

  • Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds.
  • Oven: Warm at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Sugar: 5g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Super Soft and Fluffy – The texture is light, airy, and perfectly tender.
  • Delicate Vanilla Flavor – Just the right touch of sweetness and aroma.
  • Versatile – Enjoy plain, fried, or with your favorite toppings.
  • Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients and basic baking techniques.

Conclusion

Soft Vanilla Milk Bread is a delicious and comforting homemade treat that brings warmth to any meal. With its sweet vanilla aroma, soft texture, and versatile serving options, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.

Whether you choose to bake or fry, this recipe is easy to follow and rewarding to make. Try it today and enjoy the heavenly taste of freshly made vanilla bread!