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Soft and Sweet Bread: The Ultimate Guide to Baking the Perfect Loaf

Soft and Sweet Bread

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home. This Soft and Sweet Bread is a perfect balance of tender texture and gentle sweetness, making it ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Whether enjoyed with butter, jam, or as a side to your favorite soup, this bread is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup warm water (105–115°F / 40–46°C)
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp sugar (for yeast activation)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup packed brown sugar

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

  • In a small bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and 1 tsp sugar.
  • Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. (If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive—start over with fresh yeast.)

2. Mix the Dough

  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt.
  • Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg.
  • Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough

  • Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • (Tip: If sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid making it too dry.)

4. First Rise

  • Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

5. Shape & Second Rise

  • Gently punch down the dough to release air.
  • Shape into a loaf and place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  • Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes until puffy.

6. Bake

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
  • (Optional: Brush with melted butter after baking for extra softness.)

7. Cool & Serve

  • Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  • Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Notes

  • Room Temp: Keep in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
  • Reheat: Warm slices in a toaster or microwave for a fresh-baked taste.

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