Are you craving the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread but intimidated by complicated recipes? This milk and egg bread recipe is your answer! It's incredibly easy, requiring minimal ingredients and time, yet delivers unbelievably soft and delicious results. Perfect for beginners and busy weeknights, this recipe is a staple for homemade cooking enthusiasts looking for quick dinner ideas or a simple yet satisfying healthy meal. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar (if using). This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for a perfectly risen loaf.
Step 2: Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, beaten egg, and melted butter. Make sure the butter is fully melted and incorporated into the liquid mixture.
Step 3: Bringing it Together
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread.
Step 4: Baking the Bread
Grease a loaf pan (approximately 9x5 inches) with butter. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and springy to the touch.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy. Once cool, slice and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Milk and Egg Bread:
- Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature milk and egg helps the batter combine more smoothly and ensures even baking.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing leads to a tough bread. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to ensure the bread is fully baked before removing it from the oven.
- Fresh ingredients: Using fresh baking powder and baking soda is crucial for a light and airy texture.
Variations:
- Add-ins: Get creative! Try adding raisins, cranberries, chocolate chips, or nuts to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
- Herbs: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
- Different milk: Experiment with different types of milk, like almond milk or oat milk, for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Around 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 5-7g
This delicious milk and egg bread is a fantastic addition to any meal. It's perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a simple dinner side, offering a delightful homemade taste without the fuss. Enjoy this easy recipe and elevate your homemade cooking skills!