soft bread recipes

Preparation Time: 2.5 hours (includes rising time)
Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: 2 loaves

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup milk (for brushing)

Instructions:

Activate the Yeast:

1. In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until frothy.

 Mix the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, and salt.
2. Pour in the activated yeast mixture.
3. Mix until the dough comes together.

Knead the Dough:

1. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
2. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Loaves:

1. Punch down the risen dough and turn it onto a floured surface.
2. Divide it into two equal portions.
3. Shape each portion into a loaf and place them into greased 9×5-inch loaf pans.
4. Second Rise:

1. Cover the pans with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it reaches the top of the pans.

 Preheat and Bake:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush the tops of the loaves with milk.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cool and Enjoy:

1. Remove the bread from the pans and let them cool on a wire rack before slicing.
2. Enjoy your soft and fluffy homemade white bread!

Note: You can add a tablespoon of honey to the warm milk before brushing for a slightly sweet glaze.

Feel free to experiment with different flours or add seeds for variation. Adjust the sugar and salt to your taste preference. Enjoy your freshly baked soft bread!