LOAF BREAD

Leander Fernandes
May 16
2 min read

Soft Bread Loaf (250 g Flour)

A soft, fluffy homemade bread loaf with a light crust—perfect for everyday toast, sandwiches, or simply enjoyed warm with butter.

Ingredients

250 grams plain flour (maida), sifted

1½ tsp dry yeast

200 ml lukewarm milk

½ tsp sugar

½ tsp salt

1 tbsp olive oil or butter

1 tbsp oil or butter (used sparingly for kneading; reserve some for greasing the loaf tin)

Method

1. Activate the Yeast

In a bowl, combine lukewarm milk, sugar, and yeast. Mix gently and let it rest for 10–15 minutes until frothy.

2. Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine sifted flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and bring everything together using a spatula to form a rough dough.

3. Knead the Dough

Lightly dust your work surface with flour. Transfer the dough onto it.

Wet your palms with a little lukewarm water and begin kneading using the stretch and fold method. Add a tbsp of olive oil or butter as needed to assist kneading.

Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise

Brush the bowl with olive oil or oil.

Place the dough in a bowl, cover with cling film or a lid and let it rise in a warm place for 45–60 minutes, or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Loaf

Punch down the dough gently and bring it together into a ball. Flatten slightly with your hands, then roll it into a loaf shape. Pinch the edges to seal.

6. Second Rise

Grease a loaf tin with oil or butter and lightly dust with flour. Place the shaped dough into the tin. Allow it to rise again for 30–40 minutes until doubled.

( Place in a warm place , example oven)

7. Bake

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Lightly spray water over the loaf and place a bowl of water in the oven to create steam.

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Final Tips

1.Knead using the stretch and fold method for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Avoid overproofing—the dough should just double in size

3.Brush the loaf with butter immediately after baking for a soft, glossy crust

4.Tap the base after baking—if it sounds hollow, the bread is done

Serving Suggestion

Slice and enjoy warm with butter, jam, or use it for sandwiches and toast.