Classic White Loaf

One of you complained that my bread recipes look so easy to make and that I need to explain more!
Well it is really easy. It's all in the kneading. It's just looks difficult but once you do it a couple of times, you will find it can be fun too. 

I usually make bread in my K-mix with a dough hook but when I make a post I try to do it by hand so you can see for yourself that it really is easy.
 
My son is very fond of the white square bread you bring from the supermarket. At first I did not get it right a couple of times but now it's almost perfect.
Makes amazing sandwiches and taste delicious with butter and jam.
Reminds me of home.. I ate Butter and Jam almost every breakfast as a kid. My mom sure pampered me...

Makes one loaf of bread

Here's what you will need:

400 to 500 grams All Purpose Flour
1 1/2 tsp instant Yeast
1 1/2 cup warm Milk
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp / 30 grams - butter (melted)
1 tsp salt.

Method: 
Place 400 grams flour in a bowl with Salt. 

Combine together the milk, butter, sugar and yeast. Set aside for 5 minutes. Once foamy add to the flour and combine.

I usually mix with the spoon first then start kneading with my hands. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic. Use extra flour only if needed... The dough should be soft like sponge and elastic.  

 And finally here's the test I always perform. See my fingers pressing into the dough?

Lift my hand and the dough springs back. That's how soft and elastic your dough should be..
Usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

Place in an oiled bowl with plastic wrap and leave to rise in a warm place. About an hour to hour and half.

And there it is - double in volume!

 Invert onto your counter. Press down to remove air and flatten.

Flatten the dough into a disc and start to roll like a jelly roll. 

Roll from one end to the other tightly.

Pinch the seams together.

 Now place into your sprayed loaf pan seam side down.

Cover your loaf pan with plastic wrap and let rise again for about 40 minutes to an hour. 

And here it is - Twice the original volume is a good guide to use here.  I kept this for an hour.
Kept it a little longer than I wanted but not a huge problem really.
Once you see your dough is almost done - preheat your oven at 170C/340F for at least 10 minutes.

 Now as always - egg wash, sprinkle some sesame seeds and bake in a preheated oven at 170C/340F for about 30 to 40 minutes.
When done the top will be golden brown. If you tap the bottom of your pan you will hear a hollow sound.

Always let bread rest for at least 15 to 20 minutes before you cut. 

And that's my Classic White Bread. Hope you enjoy it..!

Thanks for stopping by.