Butter bread

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Butter bread

Introduction**

Butter bread – soft, rich, fluffy, and infused with the luxurious taste of real butter – is a timeless baking treasure found in kitchens around the world. Whether served with a warm bowl of soup, used to make sandwiches, or enjoyed on its own with a pat of butter or jam, butter bread represents the essence of comfort and homestyle goodness.

This recipe is designed to be easy enough for beginners, yet satisfying for seasoned bakers who crave that nostalgic bakery-style loaf with tender, pillowy slices. It requires basic ingredients, a bit of patience, and a whole lot of butter love!

Ingredients**

For the Dough:

  • 3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour or bread flour
  • 2 ¼ tsp (7g) instant dry yeast
  • ¼ cup (50g) sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (around 110°F/43°C)
  • ¼ cup (60ml) warm water
  • ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened

For Brushing:

  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing after baking)

Instructions**

  1. Activate Yeast (if using active dry yeast):
  • Mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  • Skip this step if using instant yeast.
  1. Make the Dough:
  • In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
  • Add egg, warm milk, and the yeast mixture (or instant yeast).
  • Mix into a shaggy dough, then add the softened butter.
  1. Knead:
  • Knead for 8–10 minutes by hand or 5–7 minutes in a stand mixer with a dough hook until smooth, stretchy, and slightly tacky.
  1. First Rise:
  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 60–90 minutes or until doubled in size.
  1. Shape:
  • Punch down the dough, divide it into 3 equal pieces.
  • Roll each piece into a log and braid them, or shape into a simple loaf.
  • Place into a greased loaf pan.
  1. Second Rise:
  • Cover and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
  1. Bake:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  1. Butter Finish:
  • Immediately brush the top with melted butter for extra softness and shine.

Methods**

  • Kneading: Builds gluten, which traps air and gives the bread structure and softness.
  • Proofing (Rising): Allows yeast to develop flavor and aerate the dough.
  • Butter incorporation: Adds richness, tenderness, and a beautiful aroma.
  • Brushing with butter post-baking: Keeps the crust soft and enhances flavor.

History**

Butter bread has roots in many cultures. From French brioche to Japanese shokupan, the concept of enriched bread dates back centuries. In Europe, adding butter and eggs to bread was a sign of wealth and celebration, often reserved for holidays. With time, it became a daily staple in many homes, especially in places where dairy was abundant.

Benefits**

  • Nutrient-rich: Contains protein, healthy fats, and carbs for energy.
  • Comforting: Warm, buttery bread is soul-soothing.
  • Homemade goodness: No preservatives or artificial additives.
  • Versatile: Use for sandwiches, French toast, grilled cheese, or bread pudding.

Formation Tips**

  • Use bread flour for chewier texture; all-purpose for softer crumb.
  • Add a bit of milk powder for a creamier flavor.
  • Want extra fluffiness? Let dough rest 10 minutes before kneading.
  • Optional: Add ½ tsp vanilla or a pinch of cinnamon for aromatic sweetness.

Lovers of This Recipe**

  • Home bakers who crave soft bread like grandma used to make.
  • Parents who want healthy, homemade sandwich bread for their kids.
  • Foodies looking to level up their breakfast or brunch.
  • Beginners learning how fun and rewarding breadmaking can be!

Nutrition (Per Slice, ~1/10 loaf)**

  • Calories: 210
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 180mg

(Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

Conclusion**

Effortlessly Soft and Fluffy Butter Bread isn’t just a recipe – it’s a warm hug in loaf form. With its rich buttery flavor and cottony texture, it becomes a centerpiece of every table. From breakfast toast to late-night snack, this bread delivers comfort, satisfaction, and homemade love in every bite.

With Love, For the Lovers of Baking

To the ones who wake up early to bake for their families, to the ones who knead away their stress, and to those who believe that flour, butter, and time can create magic – this recipe is for you. Bake with joy, serve with pride, and savor the love baked into every slice.

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