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Step-by-Step How to Make Super Soft Bread

Super Soft Bread Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. And when that bread is unbelievably fluffy, moist, and tender? You’ve just entered comfort food heaven. If you’ve ever wondered how to make super soft bread at home that rivals your favorite bakery, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through every step to bake the softest, dreamiest loaf—right in your own kitchen.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup whole milk, warm (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • ¼ cup warm water
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • 1. Activate the Yeast
    In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine:
    Warm milk
    Warm water
    Sugar
    Yeast
    Stir gently and let sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is active and ready.
  • 2. Make the Dough
    In a large bowl, mix:
    3 ½ cups flour
    Salt
    Then add:
    Yeast mixture
    Egg
    Softened butter
  • 3. First Rise
    Shape the dough into a ball. Place in a greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  • 4. Shape and Second Rise
    Punch down the dough gently. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until the dough domes about an inch above the pan.
  • 5. Bake
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  • 6. Butter and Cool
    Brush the hot loaf with melted butter for a super soft crust. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

👩‍🍳 Tips for Success

  • Don’t rush the rising times—this is key to the soft texture.
  • Use whole milk for richer, more tender bread.
  • Don’t slice the bread until it’s fully cooled—it retains more moisture that way.

🧊 Storage

  • Room Temperature: Store in a bread box or wrapped in foil for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Slice and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.