Let rise in a warm place 1–1.5 hours, until doubled in size.
Speed it up: Place near a sunny window or oven with light on.
Shape the Loaf
Punch down dough gently to release air.
Roll into a rectangle (~9×12 inches), then tightly roll up from the short end, pinching seam and ends closed.
Place seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Second Rise
Cover and let rise again 30–45 minutes, until dough rises just above the rim of the pan.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake 30–35 minutes, until deep golden brown and internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
Tap the bottom — it should sound hollow.
Cool & Finish
Remove from pan immediately and cool on a wire rack.
For ultra-soft top: brush with softened butter while still warm.
Wait at least 20–30 minutes before slicing (patience = no squished loaf!).
Variations & Pro Tips
Whole Wheat Twist: Replace 1 cup all-purpose flour with whole wheat (add 1–2 tbsp extra milk)
Honey Oat Bread: Swap sugar for honey, add ½ cup oats
Cheesy Herb Loaf: Fold in ½ cup shredded cheddar + 1 tbsp rosemary
Rolls or Buns? Divide dough into 12 pieces, shape into rolls, bake 18–22 mins
Make-Ahead: Freeze cooled loaf wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Thaw and refresh in oven at 300°F for 10 mins
Stale bread fix: Wrap in foil, warm in oven — instantly revived!
Why This Bread Stays So Soft
The secret trio:
Milk – Adds protein and sugar for tenderness + golden crust
Fat (oil/butter) – Coats gluten strands, preventing toughness
Sugar – Feeds yeast and retains moisture
Plus, letting it cool properly ensures a perfect slice every time.
Final Thought: More Than Bread — It’s Love You Can Taste
This loaf isn’t just food. It’s the quiet joy of watching dough rise like hope. The pride in pulling a golden creation from your oven. The way someone sighs after their first bite and says, “You made this?”
Bread has been shared across cultures and centuries as a symbol of nourishment, generosity, and home. And when you make it yourself — with care, warmth, and maybe a little music playing in the background — you’re continuing a beautiful tradition.
So tie on your apron. Warm the milk. And let the kitchen fill with the kind of love only homemade bread can bring.
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