Introduction
Indulge your senses in the delectable world of homemade baked goods with our irresistible recipe for Heavenly Fluffy Condensed Milk Bread. This delightful treat promises to elevate your baking game to new heights, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and pillowy softness that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out on your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.
History of Condensed Milk Bread
Condensed milk bread has a rich history, with roots tracing back to various culinary traditions around the globe. Its origins can be found in recipes passed down through generations, each culture adding its own unique twist to this beloved treat. From Asian milk bread to European sweet loaves, condensed milk has long been cherished as a secret ingredient for creating irresistibly fluffy and tender bread.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup condensed milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for approximately 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to use.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: To the activated yeast mixture, add the condensed milk and melted butter. Stir well to ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring continuously until a soft dough forms. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. This process helps to develop the gluten in the dough, resulting in a lighter and fluffier texture.
- First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This initial rise allows the yeast to ferment and create air pockets within the dough, resulting in a light and airy bread.
- Divide and Shape: Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape each portion into a loaf or desired shape. Place the shaped dough onto a greased baking sheet or into greased loaf pans.
- Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rise for an additional 30-45 minutes. This second rise further develops the flavor and texture of the bread, resulting in a more pronounced taste and a finer crumb.
- Preheat and Egg Wash: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Before baking, brush the risen dough with beaten egg wash. This step adds a beautiful shine to the bread crust and helps to achieve a golden brown color during baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the prepared dough in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep a close eye on the bread to prevent over-browning.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Allow the bread to cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps to prevent the bread from becoming too dense and ensures a perfect texture.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rising Time: 1-2 hours + 30-45 minutes
- Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes to 3 hours
- Calories: Varies depending on serving size
- Servings: Makes 2 loaves
Indulge in the heavenly goodness of our Fluffy Condensed Milk Bread recipe, a delightful treat that is sure to tantalize your taste buds and impress your friends and family. With its irresistibly soft texture and sweet flavor, this bread is perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to dessert. Give it a try today and experience the magic of homemade baking at its finest!