Fluffy Condensed Milk Bread
This Fluffy Condensed Milk Bread is a soft, pillowy bread with a slight sweetness that makes it perfect for breakfast, tea time, or a snack. Made with condensed milk, this bread is incredibly tender, rich, and fragrant, with a light texture that melts in your mouth. It’s an easy recipe that combines simple ingredients to create a comforting homemade bread that your family will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon warm water
- 1 tablespoon milk for brushing the top (optional)
Preparation:
- Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is active and ready to use. - Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In a larger mixing bowl, whisk together the warm milk, condensed milk, egg, and melted butter. Once combined, add the yeast mixture to the bowl and mix well. - Add Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon until a dough starts to form. If needed, add more flour a little at a time until the dough is soft but not too sticky. - Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. You can add a little flour as needed, but be careful not to add too much, as this will make the bread dense. - Let the Dough Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size. - Shape the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. You can also shape it into smaller rolls if you prefer. - Second Rise:
Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan (or separate rolls onto a baking sheet). Cover it with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes until the dough has expanded and is about to overflow from the pan. - Bake the Bread:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the loaf with a little milk to achieve a golden crust. Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes or until it is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped. - Cool and Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Description:
The Fluffy Condensed Milk Bread is an irresistible treat that combines the richness of condensed milk with the soft fluffiness of freshly baked bread. The condensed milk provides a light sweetness and moisture that gives this bread a soft and tender crumb. Whether you enjoy it as-is or with a spread of butter or jam, it’s a versatile bread that pairs wonderfully with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Energy:
This bread is a good source of carbohydrates, which provides energy, making it a great option for breakfast or an afternoon snack. - Contains Healthy Fats:
The butter in the recipe adds a bit of healthy fat, contributing to the soft texture and flavor of the bread. The fat also helps keep you fuller for longer. - Good Source of Protein:
The egg in the bread adds protein, which is essential for muscle building and tissue repair. - Calcium Boost:
The milk in the bread provides a small amount of calcium, essential for bone health and overall body function. - No Artificial Additives:
This recipe uses natural ingredients and avoids the artificial preservatives and additives that store-bought breads often contain.
Tips for Success:
- Proper Yeast Activation:
Make sure the water used to activate the yeast is warm (not hot). Water that is too hot can kill the yeast, while cold water won’t activate it properly. - Don’t Over-knead:
While kneading is important for developing the gluten and texture of the bread, over-kneading can make the bread dense. Aim for 8-10 minutes of kneading to achieve the right texture. - Control the Dough’s Rise:
Make sure to let the dough rise in a warm place free from drafts. If it’s too cold, the dough may not rise properly. You can create a warm environment by placing the dough in an oven with just the light on. - Baking Time:
If you find that your bread is browning too quickly, you can cover the top with aluminum foil to prevent over-baking. Be sure to test for doneness by tapping on the bottom of the loaf. It should sound hollow if it’s fully baked. - Flavor Variations:
Feel free to customize the bread with additional flavorings like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even raisins for a sweeter touch. You can also add seeds like sesame or sunflower for a crunchy topping.
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 slices):
- Calories: 150-170 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 28-30 grams
- Protein: 3-4 grams
- Fat: 3-5 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 6-8 grams (from condensed milk)
- Sodium: 150-200 mg
Serving Suggestions:
- Breakfast: Toast slices of this bread and spread a bit of butter or jam for a quick and tasty breakfast.
- Snack: Pair it with tea or coffee for an afternoon snack.
- Sandwiches: Use this soft bread for making delicious sandwiches, whether savory or sweet.
- Dessert: Enjoy it with a drizzle of honey, chocolate spread, or fruit preserves for a simple dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A):
Q: Can I make this bread without condensed milk?
A: While condensed milk gives the bread its characteristic sweetness and moisture, you could substitute it with regular milk or coconut milk, although the texture and sweetness may differ. You can add sugar or sweetener to achieve similar results.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to add 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum or another binding agent to help the bread hold its shape.
Q: Can I make this bread in a bread machine?
A: Yes, you can use a bread machine for this recipe. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions, adding the ingredients in the correct order (typically wet ingredients first, followed by dry ingredients). Use the dough cycle, and then bake as usual.
Q: How long can I store this bread?
A: This bread can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Conclusion:
This Fluffy Condensed Milk Bread is the perfect balance of sweetness, tenderness, and flavor. It’s simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and results in a bread that is incredibly soft and moist. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, it’s a treat the whole family will love. Enjoy it with your favorite spread or as a side to your meals!