Here’s a recipe for Pan de Leche Casero (Homemade Milk Bread), a soft and slightly sweet bread that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup additional milk for brushing
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, warm milk, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg.
- Mix the ingredients together, gradually incorporating the flour until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough.
- First Rise:
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Bread:
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 8-10 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a smooth ball or into small loaves. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased loaf pan if making a single loaf.
- Second Rise:
- Cover the dough balls or loaves with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they puff up.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush with Milk:
- Gently brush the tops of the bread with milk for a soft, golden finish.
- Bake:
- Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden brown. If making a single loaf, bake for 30-35 minutes. The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy with butter, jam, or even on its own with coffee or tea!
Tips:
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some sugar on top before baking.
- You can add a little vanilla or orange zest to the dough for a different flavor twist.
This bread is light, fluffy, and has a mildly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with various spreads or just as it is. Enjoy your Pan de Leche Casero!