Bread with milk

Milk Bread: a classic, simple, and delicious recipe

Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a soft and fluffy milk bread that will bring a smile to anyone who tastes it. This recipe is perfect for those who want to showcase their cooking skills. The total preparation time is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, of which 30 minutes are dedicated to baking and 60 minutes for rising. The final result will be a milk bread that serves 4-6 portions.

The history of this recipe is full of tradition. Milk bread is often associated with family moments, when everyone gathers around the table and enjoys a warm slice, freshly baked. It is more than just food; it is a memory of childhood, the warmth of home, and recipes passed down through generations.

Ingredients:
- 140 ml milk (at room temperature, preferably whole for a richer taste)
- 65 ml warm water
- 1 tablespoon of butter (melted, for an intense flavor)
- 340 g flour (ideal for bread, with a high gluten content)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to activate the yeast)
- 1.5 teaspoons of salt (to add flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of dry yeast (of good quality)
- 2-3 tablespoons of milk for brushing (for a glossy and appetizing appearance)

Preparation:

1. Activating the yeast:
Start by dissolving the dry yeast in a small bowl with 50 ml of warm milk and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes frothy. This step is essential, as activating the yeast ensures a fluffy and well-risen bread.

2. Melting the butter:
Meanwhile, heat the remaining milk (90 ml) together with the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly until the butter completely melts. Turning off the heat and letting this mixture cool to room temperature is crucial to avoid overworking the yeast later.

3. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add the flour. Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Sprinkle the salt around the edges (avoid direct contact with the yeast to not inhibit fermentation). Add the milk with the melted butter and warm water. Mix everything with a spatula or with your hands, until you obtain an elastic dough.

4. Kneading the dough:
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured working surface and knead for 8-10 minutes. The dough should become smooth and elastic, without sticking to your hands. If it is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to overdo it.

5. Rising:
Place the dough in a clean bowl greased with a little oil, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

6. Shaping the bread:
After the dough has risen, transfer it to the work surface and divide it into two. You can choose to shape it into a traditional loaf in a loaf pan or a round bread. Before placing the dough in the pan, grease the pan with a little oil or line it with parchment paper. Shape the dough into the desired form and place it in the pan.

7. Final rising:
Cover again with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. During this time, preheat the oven to 220 degrees Celsius.

8. Baking:
After the dough has risen, brush the surface of the bread with 2-3 tablespoons of milk for a shiny crust. Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom.

9. Cooling and serving:
After removing the bread from the oven, let it cool on a cooling rack. This will help maintain the fluffy texture. You can serve the bread warm, alongside butter, fruit jam, or cheese, for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Useful tips:
- To enhance the flavor of the bread, you can add dried herbs to the dough, such as rosemary or thyme.
- If you want a richer texture, you can replace part of the milk with yogurt or sour cream.
- If you want to create a sweet version, add a few drops of vanilla essence or lemon zest to the dough.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A slice of milk bread (approximately 50g) contains about 120-140 calories, offering complex carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats from butter, and essential nutrients from milk and flour. This bread can be an excellent choice for a nourishing and energizing breakfast.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, you can replace dry yeast with fresh yeast, using about 3-4 g of fresh yeast. Make sure to activate it correctly.

2. What can I do if the bread doesn’t rise?
Check if the yeast is active. If it hasn’t risen, there may be a problem with the yeast or the temperature of the environment where it has risen.

3. How can I keep the bread fresh longer?
The bread keeps best in a paper bag in a cool place. Avoid storing it in the fridge, as this makes it stale faster.

Ideal pairings:
Milk bread pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea or aromatic coffee. You can serve it alongside a creamy vegetable soup or a platter of cheeses and cold cuts.

Let your imagination run wild and experiment with this simple milk bread recipe! You can add your favorite ingredients or customize it to your taste. You will find that every slice is a joy, a memory, and a delight for your taste buds. Prepare this bread with love, and it will always be welcome at your table!