Cloud-Like Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- Warm Milk: 200 ml (around 105°F / 40°C)
- Warm Water: 200 ml (around 105°F / 40°C) – The Secret Ingredient!
- Sugar: 50 g (about 1/4 cup)
- Dry Yeast: 10 g (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- Wheat Flour: 600 g (about 4 3/4 cups)
- Salt: 5 g (about 1 teaspoon)
- Vegetable Oil: for greasing
- Milk: for brushing
Directions
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, sugar, and dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast becomes foamy and active.
- Develop the Dough:
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir with a spoon or dough whisk until a shaggy dough forms.
- Activate the Yeast:
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10 minutes. If the dough feels sticky, add more flour a tablespoon at a time until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise:
- Lightly grease a bowl with vegetable oil. Place the kneaded dough in the greased bowl, turning it to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 40 minutes, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaves:
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope or tube, shaping them to your desired thickness for the final loaves.
- Knead the Dough:
- Second Rise:
- Cover the rolled dough with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let them rise for another 20 minutes.
- Preheat and Prepare to Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup (optional).
- Brush and Bake:
- Brush the tops of the risen dough with milk. For an extra touch, you can optionally sprinkle the tops with flour or sesame seeds, or use a sharp knife to gently score lines along the top of the loaves. Bake the bread for 35 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Second Rise:
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Let the baked bread cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy fresh out of the oven with butter or your favorite spread.
- Perfect for sandwiches or as a side with soups and salads.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the water is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- For an even softer texture, you can brush the bread with melted butter right after baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Provides essential carbohydrates for energy.
- Low in fat if you skip additional toppings or spreads.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be made dairy-free by using non-dairy milk and oil.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Achieves an incredibly soft and fluffy texture with minimal effort.
- Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
- Versatile and can be shaped to fit your baking needs.
- Ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers.