This is the softest, fluffiest bread you will ever bake you guys!
The secret is the tangzhong method, a simple cooked flour paste that keeps the bread airy and light for days.
It may seem like an extra step, but it’s how you get that delicate, pillowy texture.
One of my favorite things about this bread is how the slightly sweet, buttery crust balances the rich, creamy interior.
Brushing the top with milk or egg wash before baking gives it that signature shiny, golden sheen.
Let it cool completely before slicing so it stays fluffy and doesn’t get squished!
How to Make Japanese Milk Bread
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups Bread Flour
- 3 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Milk Powder
- 1 Egg
- ½ cup Whole Milk
- ¼ cup Water
- 2 tbsp Butter (unsalted)
- 2 tsp Active Dry Yeast
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, and milk powder.
Mix them well to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.
Step 2:
In another bowl, whisk together the egg, whole milk, and water.
Add this mixture to the dry ingredients.
Mix until combined.
Step 3:
Add the butter and yeast to the mixture, then knead it for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
You can use a stand mixer if you have one.
Step 4:
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for about 1 to 2 hours until it doubles.
This step is important for achieving the bread’s characteristic fluffiness.
Step 5:
After the first rise, punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan.
Cover it again and let it rise for another hour.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Yeast
Always check the expiration date of your yeast to make sure it’s fresh for the best rise and texture in your bread.
Control Temperature
Room temperature can affect how fast your dough rises, so find a warm spot in your kitchen for consistent proofing.
Butter Alternative
For a different flavor, try using melted coconut oil instead of butter, but keep the same quantity.
Flour Variety
Try using half bread flour and half all-purpose flour for a slightly lighter result if preferred.
Tangzhong Method
Consider making a tangzhong (flour paste) to add moisture and enhance softness by cooking a bit of flour and water before adding it to your dough.
What to Serve with Japanese Milk Bread
Egg Salad Sandwich
You can never go wrong with an egg salad sandwich when you’re serving Japanese milk bread!
The creamy texture of the egg salad perfectly complements the soft and fluffy bread.
This combination is a classic and beloved choice for many milk bread enthusiasts.
Strawberry and Cream
For something sweet, consider serving slices of Japanese milk bread with strawberries and cream.
This refreshing option is great for breakfast or a light dessert.
Simply layer fresh, sliced strawberries with whipped cream inside the bread for a delicious treat.
Butter and Honey Toast
Sometimes, simple is best!
Try toasting the milk bread and topping it with a generous spread of butter and a drizzle of honey.
Turkey and Avocado Sandwich
A turkey and avocado sandwich could be just what you’re looking for if you want to try something new.
Thinly sliced turkey and creamy avocado pair well with the smooth texture of milk bread.
Add some lettuce and tomato for extra freshness and flavor.
Hummus and Veggie Open-Face
For a vegetarian option, spread hummus on a sliced piece of milk bread and top it with your choice of fresh veggies.
This can include cucumbers, bell peppers, and radishes.
The earthiness of the hummus adds an unexpected but tasty twist!
Variations and Substitutions
Adding Flavors
You can add various flavors to Japanese milk bread to complement its soft texture.
Consider adding matcha for a hint of green tea flavor, or even a chocolate swirl!
A touch of vanilla extract can also enhance the taste without overwhelming the senses.
Substituting Ingredients
If you need a yeast substitute, active dry yeast works effectively.
Maintain the same quantity as initially called for in the recipe.
For those avoiding dairy, non-dairy milk like almond or soy can be used.
Texture Adjustments
If you prefer a denser loaf, brioche or challah are excellent alternatives to consider.
Brushing the dough with honey or maple syrup before baking adds a nice touch of sweetness.
Bread made this way pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea!
How to Store Leftover Japanese Milk Bread
When you have leftover Japanese milk bread, storing it properly is key to maintaining its softness and flavor.
Room Temperature Storage
If you plan to consume the leftover bread within a day or two, keep it in a plastic bag or an airtight container on your counter.
This keeps the crust from becoming too crisp or hard.
Refrigerating Options
For a longer storage period extending from two to up to three days, you can store your bread in the fridge.
Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or use a resealable bag to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing for Longer Freshness
If you want to enjoy your Japanese milk bread at its best for more than three days, consider freezing it.
Slice the bread, place parchment paper between slices, and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
This makes it easy to grab as many slices as you need without defrosting the entire loaf!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tangzhong Timing
Start preparing the tangzhong early enough to ensure it has time to chill in the refrigerator before using it.
The tangzhong method requires precision in timing, so don’t skip this step or rush it.
Mixing warm ingredients can hinder the dough’s development, so it’s crucial to keep liquids cold.
Sticky Dough Issues
It’s tempting to add lots of flour if your dough feels sticky, but that can alter the texture.
Flour your hands regularly to prevent sticking while kneading instead of adding extra flour continuously.
Remember, some slight stickiness is normal and helps to create fluffy, soft bread.
Measurement Precision
Baking with accurate measurements is particularly important, so use a kitchen scale for best results.
Dry ingredient measurements can often be inconsistent if you’re not using weighted equivalents.
Stick to precise measurements to maintain the proper dough consistency and final texture.
Japanese Milk Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups Bread Flour
- 3 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tbsp Milk Powder
- 1 Egg
- ½ cup Whole Milk
- ¼ cup Water
- 2 tbsp Butter unsalted
- 2 tsp Active Dry Yeast
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, and milk powder.
- Mix them well to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg, whole milk, and water.
- Add this mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Mix until combined.
- Add the butter and yeast to the mixture, then knead it for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- You can use a stand mixer if you have one.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise for about 1 to 2 hours until it doubles.
- This step is important for achieving the bread’s characteristic fluffiness.
- After the first rise, punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Cover it again and let it rise for another hour.