Soft Vanilla Milk Bread

Introduction:

Soft Vanilla Milk Bread is a wonderfully light, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a side to any meal. The addition of vanilla and milk gives it a rich and comforting flavor, making it an irresistible treat for bread lovers. This bread is made using the tangzhong method, which helps keep it soft and fresh for days. Whether you enjoy it as-is, toasted with a bit of butter, or as a base for sandwiches, Soft Vanilla Milk Bread will quickly become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

For the Tangzhong (Flour Gel):

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup whole milk

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tangzhong:

In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour, water, and milk. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches a pudding-like consistency. Once it thickens, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Stir until evenly mixed. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the warm milk, heavy cream, softened butter, egg, vanilla extract, honey (if using), and the cooled tangzhong. Mix everything together until the dough begins to form.

3. Knead the Dough:

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour, one tablespoon at a time. You can also knead using a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 6-8 minutes.

4. First Rise:

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the Dough:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 3 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten each ball into an oval shape. Roll each oval up tightly to form a log, then place the logs into a greased loaf pan, seam side down.

6. Second Rise:

Cover the loaf pan with a cloth or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it rises slightly above the rim of the pan.

7. Bake the Bread:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the dough has risen, place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

8. Cool the Bread:

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

History of Soft Vanilla Milk Bread:

The origins of Soft Vanilla Milk Bread can be traced to Asian baking traditions, particularly the use of the tangzhong method, which was first popularized in Japan. This method helps make bread extra soft and fluffy, and it has since become a popular technique in many other countries. Adding vanilla to the traditional milk bread recipe gives it a unique flavor that makes it stand out from the typical soft bread varieties. Today, Soft Vanilla Milk Bread is enjoyed worldwide, especially in East Asia, Southeast Asia, and increasingly in Western countries.

Benefits of Soft Vanilla Milk Bread:

• Soft and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the tangzhong method, this bread remains incredibly soft for several days.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of milk, vanilla, and honey provides a deliciously comforting flavor.
• Customizable: You can enjoy this bread on its own or use it for sandwiches, French toast, or toasted with butter.
• Made with Simple Ingredients: All the ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to make whenever you crave fresh bread.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

This recipe yields approximately 12 slices. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per slice:

• Calories: ~150 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 6g

(Note: Nutritional content can vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.)

Conclusion:

Soft Vanilla Milk Bread is a delightful and versatile recipe that’s perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. With its light, fluffy texture and deliciously sweet vanilla flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your home. Whether you enjoy it as-is, with butter, or as part of a meal, this bread is a treat that will never go out of style.

For the Lovers of Soft and Sweet Breads:

If you love soft, comforting bread with a touch of sweetness, Soft Vanilla Milk Bread is a must-try. This bread’s light and airy texture combined with the rich flavor of vanilla will make you want to bake it again and again. Serve it for breakfast, tea time, or as an afternoon snack, and enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade bread!

Enjoy making and savoring this soft, flavorful Soft Vanilla Milk Bread!