Description
Fluffy Butter Bread is a soft, tender homemade loaf perfect for breakfast or sandwiches. Made with enriched dough featuring butter and milk, this classic American bread is easy to prepare and yields a golden crust with a moist, airy crumb. Ideal for those looking to bake fresh bread with a rich buttery flavor and fluffy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the softened butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture, then stir to combine all wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Add Flour: Gradually mix in the flour, one cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms that is slightly sticky but manageable.
- Knead Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten necessary for structure.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air, then shape it into a loaf or divide it into rolls as desired. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or baking dish.
- Second Rise: Cover the dough again and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes until puffed.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is ready for baking.
- Bake Bread: Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes until the crust turns a golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped, indicating it is cooked through.
- Finish with Butter: Remove the bread from the oven and immediately brush the top with melted butter to add flavor and a soft crust. Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to retain its fluffy texture.
Notes
- You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.
- For a touch of sweetness, add 1–2 tablespoons of honey along with the sugar.
- This dough also works well for dinner rolls or sandwich buns by dividing accordingly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
