Bread

Japanese Milk Bread

This Japanese milk bread recipe is perfect for dinner rolls, burger buns, or simply enjoying on its own with a generous spread of garlic butter.

🍳
8
Serves
5h 45m
Prep
25m
Cook

Ingredients

  • active yeast
  • water
  • flour
  • water
  • milk
  • flour
  • sugar
  • salt
  • milk
  • egg
  • butter
  • egg
  • butter
  • garlic
  • parsley

Method

  1. 1

    Activate the yeast by combining 1 tablespoon of active yeast with 1/4 cup of warm water in a small bowl. Stir and set aside.

  2. 2

    To make the tangzhong, combine 2 tablespoons of flour, 2 tablespoons of water, and 4.5 tablespoons of milk in a saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a paste-like consistency. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

  3. 3

    In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 2 2/3 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt.

  4. 4

    Add 1/2 cup of milk, the activated yeast mixture, the cooled tangzhong, and one egg to the dry ingredients.

  5. 5

    Using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed for about 5 minutes, or until a shaggy dough ball forms.

  6. 6

    With the mixer still on low, add the softened butter one tablespoon at a time, allowing each to incorporate before adding the next. Continue to mix until the dough is smooth and elastic.

  7. 7

    Remove the dough from the mixer, form it into a smooth ball, and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

  8. 8

    Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Transfer it to a clean surface and divide it into 8 equal pieces, each weighing about 75 grams.

  9. 9

    Roll each piece into a smooth ball and arrange them in a greased 8-inch round baking pan, leaving some space between each ball.

  10. 10

    Cover the pan and let the rolls rest for another 45 minutes, or until they have puffed up and are touching.

  11. 11

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Whisk one egg to create an egg wash and brush it evenly over the tops of the rolls.

  12. 12

    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are a deep golden brown.

  13. 13

    While the bread is baking, prepare the garlic butter by mixing melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley in a small bowl.

  14. 14

    As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush the garlic butter generously over the hot rolls. Serve warm and enjoy.

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