Fluffy Sweet Bread

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

• In a small bowl, combine the warm water and honey (if using). Sprinkle the instant yeast over the water and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the mixture becomes foamy.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Mix them well.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Make the Dough:

• Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients, followed by the wet ingredients. Stir until a sticky dough forms.

• Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, adding small amounts of flour if necessary, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

5. First Rise:

• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

6. Shape the Dough:

• After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf or divide it into smaller portions (such as rolls).

• If you’re making a loaf, place the dough into a greased loaf pan.

7. Second Rise:

• Cover the shaped dough with a towel and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes, or until it has puffed up and is about to crown over the edge of the loaf pan.

8. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

9. Bake:

• Once the dough has risen, place it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes for rolls or 35-40 minutes for a loaf, or until the top is golden brown, and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

• For extra softness, you can brush the top of the loaf with a little melted butter right after it comes out of the oven.

10. Cool and Serve:

• Let the sweet bread cool on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes before slicing.

• Serve warm with a pat of butter, jam, or enjoy it on its own.

Optional Variations:

• Cinnamon Twist: Sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar between the layers of the dough before shaping it into a loaf for a delicious twist.

• Add-ins: You can fold in chocolate chips, raisins, or dried fruit to make the bread even more indulgent.

• Glaze: For an extra touch, drizzle a simple vanilla glaze (made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract) over the bread once it’s cooled.

This Fluffy Sweet Bread is a versatile treat that is perfectly soft and moist, with just the right amount of sweetness. Whether served fresh out of the oven or as a part of a cozy breakfast, it’s sure to be a hit! 🍞🍯