Bread Soft Like a Cloud

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Introduction:
Experience the ultimate in homemade bread with this Bread Soft Like a Cloud recipe. With its incredibly light and airy texture, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, toasts, or simply enjoying with a pat of butter. The secret to its cloud-like softness lies in the tangzhong method, a Japanese technique that involves cooking a portion of the flour with water to create a pudding-like roux. This method ensures that the bread stays moist and tender for days.

Ingredients:

For the Tangzhong (Roux):

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

For the Dough:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

Optional Additions:

  • 1 tablespoon honey for a slightly sweeter dough
  • Seeds or oats for sprinkling on top

Instructions:

1. Make the Tangzhong:

  • In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour, water, and milk until smooth.
  • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
  • Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare the Dough:

  • In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
  • Add the cooled tangzhong, milk, and egg. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are combined.
  • Add the softened butter and continue to mix until a soft, sticky dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough:

  • Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for about 10-12 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. The dough will be slightly sticky, but it should pull away from the sides of the bowl.

4. First Rise:

  • Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Shape the Dough:

  • Gently deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
  • Divide the dough into 3 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
  • Place the balls of dough into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan, side by side.

6. Second Rise:

  • Cover the loaf pan with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has risen just above the edge of the pan.

7. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

8. Bake the Bread:

  • If desired, brush the top of the dough with a little milk for a shiny finish.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
  • If the bread is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

9. Cool the Bread:

  • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
  • Transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success:

  • Ensure that the tangzhong mixture is completely cooled before adding it to the dough.
  • Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements, especially for the flour and liquid ingredients.
  • For an extra soft texture, you can add 1 tablespoon of powdered milk to the dry ingredients.

Nutritional Estimate:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Calories: Approximately 180-200 per slice (based on 12 slices)
  • Total Fat: Approximately 5-7g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 3-4g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 35-45mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 200-250mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 28-32g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1-2g
  • Sugars: Approximately 4-6g
  • Protein: Approximately 5-6g

Recommendation:
This Bread Soft Like a Cloud is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re making sandwiches, toast, or enjoying it plain. The unique tangzhong method ensures a soft and tender crumb that stays fresh longer than traditional bread. Serve it warm with butter, honey, or your favorite spread, and enjoy the delightful, airy texture. Perfect for everyday baking, this bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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