1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Add a pinch of sugar to help activate the yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the yeast mixture to the bowl and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may need slightly more or less flour, depending on humidity and other factors.
- Once the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Rise the Dough:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat all sides with oil.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Dough:
- Punch down the risen dough to release air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface.
- Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get approximately 12-15 balls, depending on the size.
- Arrange the dough balls in a greased round or square baking pan, placing them close together but not touching.
5. Second Rise:
- Cover the pan with a cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes, or until the balls are puffed and touching each other.
6. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the tops of the dough balls with melted butter. If desired, mix the granulated sugar with ground cinnamon and sprinkle it over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
7. Serve:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. This bread is delicious on its own or with butter and jam.
Tips for Success:
- Check Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but not too sticky. Adjust the flour or milk as needed.
- Proper Rising: Ensure the dough has plenty of time to rise in a warm place for the best texture.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bread towards the end of baking to avoid overbrowning.
Conclusion: Balloon Bread is a delightful and impressive addition to any meal. Its light, fluffy texture and fun presentation make it a great choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. With this recipe, you’ll create a bread that’s not only tasty but also a conversation starter. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!