This milk bread is unbelievably soft, lightly sweet, and fluffy like a cloud. The crumb is tender, the crust is golden and shiny, and the rolls stay soft for days. This is the kind of bread that disappears fast—perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or just warm with butter.
Quick Description
A classic soft milk bread made with warm milk, butter, and yeast. The dough is easy to work with, rises beautifully, and bakes into pillowy rolls with a rich bakery-style texture.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 8–10 rolls
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1½–2 hours
- Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
- Total Time: ~2½ hours
Ingredients List
Dough
- 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2¼ tsp instant or active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp salt
For Brushing
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (egg wash)
- Optional: melted butter after baking
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, combine warm milk and sugar.
Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix the Dough
Add egg and softened butter to the yeast mixture.
Stir until mostly combined.
Add flour and salt gradually.
Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead
Knead by hand or mixer for 8–10 minutes, until:
- Dough is smooth
- Slightly tacky but not sticky
- Springs back when pressed
Add a little flour only if needed.
4. First Rise
Place dough in a lightly greased bowl.
Cover and let rise in a warm place 1–1½ hours, until doubled.
5. Shape the Rolls
Punch down dough.
Divide into 8–10 equal pieces.
Roll each piece into a rectangle and tightly roll into a log (as shown).
Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined tray.
6. Second Rise
Cover loosely and let rise 30–40 minutes until puffy.
7. Egg Wash
Brush gently with egg yolk + milk for that glossy bakery finish.
8. Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake 20–25 minutes until deep golden brown.
9. Finish
Brush with melted butter while warm for extra softness.
Cool slightly and enjoy.
Texture & Flavor Notes
- Ultra-soft interior
- Slightly sweet, rich milk flavor
- Pull-apart crumb
- Not dry, not dense
Nutrition (Approx. per roll)
- Calories: ~220
- Carbs: ~35g
- Protein: ~6g
- Fat: ~7g
