Ingredients
• 4 cups (500g) bread flour
• 2¼ tsp (7g) instant yeast
• 3 tbsp (38g) granulated sugar
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp milk powder (optional, for a softer crumb)
For Brushing
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (after baking)
Method
1. In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and milk powder (if using).
2. Add the warm milk, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10–15 minutes until smooth, soft, and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf or divide it into equal portions for rolls.
6. Place the shaped dough into a greased 9 × 5-inch (23 × 13 cm) loaf pan or on a lined baking tray.
7. Cover and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
8. Brush the top with the beaten egg.
9. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for:
• 30–35 minutes for a loaf
• 18–22 minutes for rolls
10. Brush the hot bread with melted butter for an extra-soft, glossy crust.
11. Remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack before slicing.
