Butter Bread Recipe

Butter bread is a soft and flavorful bread that enhances any meal or makes for a comforting snack by itself. This easy-to-follow recipe suits bakers of all skill levels, enabling you to whip up a loaf of buttery delight that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• Extra melted butter for brushing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt thoroughly to evenly distribute the yeast.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the warm milk, melted butter, and egg together. Slowly combine this with the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Place the dough on a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic, adding more flour if it’s sticky.
4. First Rise: Put the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf: After rising, punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Shape it into a rectangle and roll it tightly from one end to the other.
6. Second Rise: Place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover it with the towel and allow it to rise again for 30-40 minutes, until puffy.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and Serve: Brush the top with melted butter for a shiny look. Cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then move to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

This butter bread is incredibly adaptable. Serve it warm with butter, use it for sandwiches, or pair it with soups and stews. You can also toast slices for breakfast, topped with jam or honey for a sweet delight.

Storage Tips

Keep leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and toast for a fresh taste.

Final Thoughts

Baking bread at home is a fulfilling activity, and this Butter Bread Recipe is an excellent starting point. Its rich flavor and fluffy texture will quickly make it a household favorite. Enjoy the baking experience and the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes!