Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine 1/2 cup warm milk (make sure it’s around 110°F/45°C, not too hot) and 1/4 cup sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Sprinkle the 1 tablespoon active dry yeast over the milk mixture and stir gently to combine. Let the yeast sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This step ensures that the yeast is activated and ready to work its magic in the dough.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
While the yeast is activating, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisking the flour and salt together ensures the salt is evenly distributed before mixing with the wet ingredients. This will prevent the salt from coming into direct contact with the yeast, which can hinder its rise.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the dry ingredients along with 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened), and 1/4 cup heavy cream. The heavy cream adds richness and softness to the dough, while the vanilla extract brings a warm, comforting flavor.
Using a wooden spoon or stand mixer with a dough hook, stir the mixture until it begins to come together into a dough. You’ll notice the dough will be soft and slightly sticky.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 8 to 10 minutes. Knead by pushing the dough away from you with the heel of your hand, folding it over, and rotating it. This process will help develop the gluten, making the dough elastic and soft. If you’re using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5 to 6 minutes.
The dough is ready when it is smooth, slightly tacky to the touch, and elastic. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time. If the dough is too dry, add a few drops of milk.
Step 5: First Rise (Proofing)
Lightly grease a large bowl with a bit of butter or oil. Place the dough in the bowl and turn it to coat all sides with the grease. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. To check if the dough is ready, gently press a finger into it. If the indentation remains, the dough is ready for the next step.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangle shape, about 12 inches by 8 inches. If you prefer, you can divide the dough into three portions and roll each portion into a smaller log for a more traditional shape.
Roll the dough up tightly from the long edge, pinching the seams as you go to seal the loaf. If you want to give the bread an extra touch of elegance, you can fold the edges of the dough under to create a neat, uniform loaf. Place the shaped dough into a 9×5-inch loaf pan that has been lightly greased.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the loaf pan with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let the dough rise for another 30 to 45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the rim of the pan. This final rise is important to ensure your bread will have a light and fluffy texture.
Step 8: Preheat the Oven
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to have the oven fully preheated to ensure even baking once the bread goes in.
Step 9: Bake the Bread
Once the dough has risen to the desired height, place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top of the bread is golden brown. The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom, or you can check its internal temperature with a thermometer. It should read about 190°F (88°C).
If the top of the bread begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
Step 10: Cool the Bread
Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After this, turn the bread out onto a cooling rack to cool completely. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to ensure the bread sets properly and holds its shape.
Why This Soft Vanilla Milk Bread Is a Must-Try
- Soft and Fluffy: Thanks to the milk and cream, this bread is incredibly tender and soft, with a slightly sweet flavor that makes it stand out.
- Perfect for Breakfast or Snacks: Serve it as is, toasted with a bit of butter, or spread it with jam, Nutella, or your favorite toppings.
- Vanilla Aroma: The rich vanilla extract creates an irresistible scent that fills your kitchen as it bakes.
- Versatile: Whether you serve it with coffee, as a side dish, or use it for sweet sandwiches, this bread fits every occasion.
- Beginner-Friendly: This recipe uses simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, making it a great choice for those new to baking.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Butter and Jam: The soft, slightly sweet texture of this bread makes it perfect for pairing with butter and jam for a delicious breakfast.
- French Toast: Use this bread to make the fluffiest, most flavorful French toast. Dip slices in egg, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla, then fry until golden brown.
- Sweet Sandwiches: For a fun treat, make a sweet sandwich with Nutella, peanut butter, or cream cheese and fruit.
- Bread Pudding: If you have leftover slices, transform them into a rich, indulgent bread pudding by baking them with eggs, milk, sugar, and your favorite spices.
Storage Tips:
- Room Temperature: Store your vanilla milk bread in a bread box or wrapped in a kitchen towel at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Slice the bread and freeze it in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy it, simply toast the slices straight from the freezer.
Conclusion
This Soft Vanilla Milk Bread is a comforting, sweet treat that’s perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or as part of a delicious breakfast or snack, the tender crumb, sweet vanilla flavor, and rich milk make this bread something truly special. Give this recipe a try, and soon you’ll be baking your own soft, fragrant loaves to share with friends and family!