Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix the water, milk, yeast, and sugar. Cover and set aside for about 5 minutes, until the mixture starts to foam.
- Add the butter, salt, and 1 cup of the flour. Mix on low speed for about 30 seconds.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl and add another cup of flour. Keep mixing until it's absorbed.
- Add the rest of the flour and knead for 5–8 minutes, until the dough is elastic and not sticky. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour, gradually.
- Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.
- Grease a 10 x 5-inch (25 x 12.5 cm) loaf pan. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 8½ x 16 inches (22 x 41 cm).
- Roll it up into a log about 8½ inches (22 cm) long and place it in the pan.
- Cover and let rise for about 1 hour more, until the dough rises about 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the rim of the pan.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 350°F (177°C) for 35–38 minutes, until the loaf is golden and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom.
- Let cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Tips for the softest loaf
- Make sure the yeast mixture foams in step 1. If it doesn't, the yeast may be old.
- Add flour gradually at the end. The dough should be elastic and not sticky, but not dry.
- Don't slice while warm. Cooling completely lets the crumb set.
- Bread flour → all-purpose flour (same amount; slightly softer, less chewy crumb).
- Instant yeast → active dry yeast (same amount; give it the full foaming time in step 1).
