Fluffy Condensed Milk Bread

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk with the sugar and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and sweetened condensed milk.
4. Make the Dough: Add the yeast mixture and the condensed milk mixture to the flour. Stir until a rough dough forms.
5. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook on medium speed for about 5 minutes.
6. Incorporate the Butter: Gradually add the softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, kneading until fully incorporated. The dough should be soft, smooth, and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Step 2: First Rise

1. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1-1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Bread

1. Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air.
2. Divide and Shape: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 8-10 equal portions (for rolls) or leave it whole (for a loaf). Shape each portion into smooth balls, or if making a loaf, shape it into a log.
3. Place in Pan: For rolls, arrange them in a greased 9-inch round or square baking pan, leaving a little space between each. For a loaf, place the shaped dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Let the Dough Rise Again: Cover the shaped dough with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rise for another 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size again.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brush with Egg Wash: Gently brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to give the bread a golden, shiny finish.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes (for rolls) or 30-35 minutes (for a loaf), until the bread is golden brown on top and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
4. Cool the Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Fluffy Condensed Milk Bread

• Use Warm Milk: The milk should be warm but not hot (about 110°F/43°C). Hot milk can kill the yeast, while cold milk will slow down the rising process.
• Soft Butter: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature so it incorporates smoothly into the dough.
• Check the Rise: If your dough isn’t rising, your yeast may be expired or the temperature might be too cold. Place the dough in a warm area, such as near the oven or on top of the fridge, to help it rise.

Variations

1. Condensed Milk Rolls: Instead of one loaf, divide the dough into smaller portions and shape them into individual rolls. Bake them in a round or square pan for easy-to-pull-apart dinner rolls.
2. Sweet Fillings: For an extra indulgent treat, you can fill each dough ball with sweetened cream cheese, Nutella, or jam before shaping them into rolls.
3. Condensed Milk Glaze: For a sweeter finish, mix some sweetened condensed milk with a little melted butter and brush it over the hot bread as soon as it comes out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight for a slow fermentation, which will enhance the flavor. Simply cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise slowly in the fridge. The next day, let it come to room temperature and continue with shaping and baking.

How Long Does Fluffy Condensed Milk Bread Last?

This bread is best enjoyed fresh but will keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw and warm in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Can I Use a Bread Machine?

Yes! You can make the dough using a bread machine. Add all the ingredients except the butter to the machine in the order recommended by the manufacturer. Once the dough starts to form, add the butter gradually. After the first rise, remove the dough, shape it, and bake it as directed.

Nutritional Information (per slice):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 5g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 200mg