Heavenly Milk Bread Loaf

1.In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2.Add the milk, softened butter, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined.

3.Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a dough forms.

4.Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

5.Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

6.Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Shape it into a loaf by flattening it into a rectangle and rolling it tightly from one end to the other.

7.Place the shaped loaf into a greased loaf pan. Cover it again with a damp cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until it puffs up.

8.Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

9.Brush the top of the loaf with the tablespoon of milk for a golden crust.

10.Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

11.Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.