Milk Bread Recipe (with Video)

Milk Bread Recipe: Milk bread is a fluffy, slightly sweet, and irresistibly soft bread that melts in your mouth. It’s a staple in many Asian households and has gained global popularity for its pillowy texture and delightful taste.

Whether you enjoy it plain, toasted, or as the base for sandwiches, this versatile bread will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Today, we’ll walk you through the ultimate step-by-step guide to making milk bread from scratch. Ready? Let’s get started!

What is Milk Bread?

Milk bread, also known as shokupan in Japan, is a type of bread made with a special technique called tangzhong. This method involves cooking a portion of the flour with water or milk to form a roux. The result? A moist, fluffy, and incredibly soft bread that stays fresh longer than regular bread.

What sets milk bread apart is its distinct texture—light, airy, and slightly chewy. Its slightly sweet flavor makes it versatile enough to complement both sweet and savory toppings.

Why Should You Make Milk Bread at Home?

• Healthier Option: Homemade milk bread doesn’t contain preservatives or unnecessary additives, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought versions.
• Customizable: Love raisins? Prefer a hint of cinnamon? Making your own allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking.
• Cost-Effective: With a few pantry staples, you can create a loaf that tastes better than anything store-bought at a fraction of the cost.

Ingredients Needed for Milk Bread

To make perfect milk bread, you’ll need the following:

Primary Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour (or bread flour) – 3 cups
• Milk – 1 cup
• Unsalted butter – 3 tablespoons
• Sugar – 3 tablespoons
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Active dry yeast – 2 ¼ teaspoons
• Egg – 1 (for enriching the dough and glazing)

Optional Additions:

• Vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness
• Milk powder for extra richness
• Sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping

Substitutions:

• Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or wooden spoon
• Stand mixer with a dough hook (optional)
• Loaf pan (standard 9×5 inches)
• Kitchen thermometer (for checking yeast and baking temperatures)
• Plastic wrap or a damp towel (for proofing)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Milk Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong (Starter)

1. Combine 3 tablespoons of flour with ½ cup of milk in a small saucepan.
2. Heat on low, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and resembles a smooth paste.
3. Let it cool to room temperature before using.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

1. Warm ½ cup of milk to around 110°F (lukewarm, not hot).
2. Stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

Step 3: Mix the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
2. Add the cooled tangzhong, activated yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter.
3. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

• By Hand: Knead on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• With a Stand Mixer: Use the dough hook attachment and knead for 8-10 minutes on medium speed.

Step 5: First Proofing

1. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl.
2. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6: Shape the Bread

1. Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal pieces.
2. Roll each piece into a rectangle, then fold and roll into a log shape.
3. Place the logs side by side in a greased loaf pan.

Step 7: Second Proofing

1. Cover the pan and let the dough rise again for 30-45 minutes until it fills the pan.

Step 8: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brush the top of the loaf with a beaten egg for a golden crust.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
4. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Pro Tips for Perfect Milk Bread

• Tangzhong is Key: Don’t skip the starter! It’s the secret to the bread’s softness and extended shelf life.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter and milk, are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Test for Elasticity: Perform the “windowpane test” to check if the dough is kneaded enough. Stretch a piece thin; it should become translucent without tearing.

Variations of Milk Bread

• Whole Wheat Milk Bread: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Sweet Milk Bread: Add chocolate chips, dried fruits, or a cinnamon-sugar swirl.
• Savory Milk Bread: Mix in grated cheese, herbs, or even bits of cooked bacon.

Serving Suggestions

Milk bread is perfect as:

• Toast with butter and jam
• Sandwich bread for soft, fluffy layers
• A side for soups and stews

Storage Tips for Milk Bread

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freeze slices in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before enjoying.

FAQs about Milk Bread Recipe

1. What is milk bread?

Milk bread is a soft, fluffy type of bread that originates from Japan, known for its sweet flavor and slightly shiny, golden crust. Its unique texture is achieved through a cooking process that involves a water roux, also known as tangzhong, which makes the bread incredibly soft and tender.

2. What ingredients do I need for milk bread?

To make milk bread, you typically need the following ingredients: flour, milk, sugar, yeast, salt, and butter. Some recipes may also include eggs and milk powder for added richness.

3. How long does it take to make milk bread?

The total time to make milk bread, including preparation and cooking, is usually about 3 to 4 hours. This includes time for the dough to rise, which can take about 1 to 2 hours.

4. Can I make milk bread without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can make milk bread by hand, although it requires some effort to knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. A stand mixer is helpful but not essential.

5. Is milk bread vegan?

Traditional milk bread recipes are not vegan, as they contain milk and often butter. However, you can substitute plant-based milk and vegan butter to make a vegan version of milk bread.

6. How do I store milk bread?

Milk bread should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature and is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month.

7. Can I add fillings to my milk bread?

Absolutely! Milk bread is versatile and can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as chocolate chips, custard, or even savory fillings like cheese and ham.

Conclusion

Making milk bread at home is a rewarding experience that lets you enjoy the ultimate comfort food in its freshest form. From the tangzhong method to the final golden loaf, every step is worth the effort. Try it out—you’ll never look at store-bought bread the same way again.