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The Best Fluffy Yeast Bread Recipe for Incredibly Soft Loaves

Cross-section view showing the airy, open crumb structure of the fluffy yeast bread recipe.
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Follow this detailed guide to make a light, airy, and pillowy soft homemade bread that is perfect for sandwiches or dinner rolls. This no-fail recipe builds confidence for beginners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 105-115°F (40-46°C)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one standard packet)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting

Instructions

  1. Warm the milk in a small saucepan or microwave until it reaches 105-115°F. Pour the warm milk into a large bowl and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy. This proves your yeast is active.
  2. Add the sugar, softened butter, egg, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk gently until combined.
  3. Gradually add 3 cups of the flour, mixing with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes, adding the remaining flour one tablespoon at a time only as needed to prevent sticking. The dough is ready when it is smooth, elastic, and springs back slowly when poked.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is the first rise.
  6. Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. Turn it onto a lightly floured surface. Shape the dough into a tight loaf and place it into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  7. Cover the pan loosely and let the dough rise again in a warm spot for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the dough has crested about 1 inch above the rim of the pan. This is the second rise. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 15 minutes of the second rise.
  8. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200-205°F (93-96°C).
  9. Remove the bread from the pan immediately and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing for the softest texture.

Notes

  • For an extra soft crust, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter immediately after removing it from the oven.
  • If your kitchen is cold, place the covered dough bowl inside your oven with just the light turned on to create a warm proofing environment.
  • Use room temperature ingredients, especially the egg and milk, to help the yeast activate consistently.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.purecookingjoy.com/fluffy-yeast-bread-recipe/

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