Milk Loaf Bread
Japanese

Soft and fluffy Japanese-style milk bread using tangzhong method for extra moisture.

Last updated: December 19, 2024
PREP
45
COOK
35
TOTAL
1h20m
7
0
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Instructions
Tangzhong
1

Mix flour and milk in a saucepan, whisk until smooth.

20 g Bread flour (for tangzhong)100 ml Milk (for tangzhong)
2

Cook over low heat until thickened, then cool.

Dough
3

Mix bread flour, sugar and salt.

300 g Bread flour35 g Sugar4 g Salt
4

Add milk, egg and tangzhong.

120 ml Milk30 g Egg80 g Tangzhong
5

Knead into rough dough, chill 4 hrs or overnight.

6

Mix yeast with a little milk, add to the dough, and knead until smooth.

Dough
7

Add softened butter and knead until smooth and elastic.

30 g Softened butter
8

Cover and ferment until doubled.

9

Divide to 3 balls, shape into logs and place in loaf pan.

10

Proof until 80–90% full. Brush with egg yolk + milk.

11

Bake at 170°C for 30–35 min.

12

Take out the loaf from the oven and remove from the pan.

13

Brush top with butter to keep it soft and shiny.

Chef's Tips
  • Don't over-knead after adding butter; use folding if needed.
  • Keep the dough at 25°C or below while kneading to prevent over-fermentation.
  • Tangzhong (Water Roux): Use 10% of total flour with 1:5 ratio to water. Keeps bread soft and fresh longer.
  • Storage: Tangzhong can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.