Soft Loaf Recipe

Introduction:

This Soft Loaf Recipe creates a fluffy, tall, and tender bread, perfect for sandwiches or simply slathering with butter. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and results in the softest loaf, ideal for everyday use. Whether you’re new to bread baking or experienced, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4½ teaspoons instant yeast (two 0.25-ounce packets)
• ¾ cup + 2⅔ cups warm water (divided)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed, room temperature)
• 9 to 10 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted for brushing)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In the bowl of a mixer, dissolve the yeast in ¾ cup of warm water. Let sit for about 5 minutes.
2. Mix the Dough:
   • Add the remaining 2⅔ cups warm water, sugar, salt, butter, and 5 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
   • Using a dough hook on low speed, gradually add the remaining flour until the dough becomes soft and slightly tacky (you may not need all the flour).
   • Continue to knead for 7-10 minutes until a smooth, soft ball of dough forms.
3. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning it to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a draft-free area until doubled in size (about 45 minutes to 1 hour).
4. Shape the Dough:
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Press gently to remove air pockets.
   • Divide the dough into two equal portions. Working with one portion at a time, flatten into a 9×12-inch rectangle, then roll it tightly from the short end into a cylinder.
   • Pinch the seams and ends to seal, then tuck the ends under and place the loaf into greased 9-inch loaf pans.
5. Second Rise:
   • Cover the loaves loosely with a cloth or plastic wrap. Let them rise again in a warm place until doubled, about 30-45 minutes.
6. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F and position the oven rack on the lowest setting.
   • Brush the tops of the loaves with melted butter. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown, or until an instant-read thermometer reads 195°F in the center.
7. Cool:
   • Remove from the oven and immediately brush with more melted butter. Let the loaves cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Conclusion:

This Soft Loaf Recipe yields two tall, fluffy loaves that are perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter. The bread’s soft texture and slightly sweet flavor make it a versatile staple. You can slice and freeze one loaf for future use, making this recipe not only delicious but also convenient for meal prep!