Mastering the Art of Milk Bread Rolls: A Beginner's Step-by-Step Guide
Milk bread rolls are not just another side dish; they are a warm, fluffy addition that elevates any meal. Imagine biting into a soft roll with a hint of sweetness, perfectly complementing a hearty dinner or a simple soup. This guide will help you make these delightful rolls from scratch, even if you are new to baking.
Why Choose Milk Bread Rolls?
Milk bread has a rich history in Asian cuisine and is renowned for its soft, tender texture. The unique combination of regular milk and sweetened condensed milk contributes to both taste and moisture. For instance, many bakers notice that with the addition of sweetened condensed milk, the rolls have a 20% softer texture compared to regular dough. Whether for a family meal, a picnic lunch, or just to indulge at home, these rolls are versatile. You can easily fill them with creamy butter, savory meats, or sweet jams, making them a perfect choice for any occasion.
Ingredients You Will Need
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
533g bread flour
249ml milk
2 tsp yeast
50g sugar
1 tsp salt
142g sweetened condensed milk
7 tbsp butter
2 eggs
Using bread flour is essential because it contains more protein which helps develop gluten, giving the rolls their signature airy quality.
Activating the Yeast
Start by gently warming the milk in the microwave for about 30 seconds so it reaches approximately 38°C (100°F).
Add a pinch of sugar to the warm milk and sprinkle the active yeast on top. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5 minutes. This is a crucial step because it activates the yeast, allowing it to ferment and produce carbon dioxide, which helps the dough rise.
Mixing the Dough
While the yeast activates, combine the remaining ingredients (bread flour, sugar, salt, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and eggs) in a mixing bowl. After the yeast has bubbled up, pour it into the bowl with the other ingredients.
Use a spatula to mix everything until a dough begins to form. Once combined, cover the bowl with a damp tea towel and let it rest for 20 minutes. This resting phase hydrates the flour, kickstarting gluten development and making the dough smoother.
Kneading the Dough
After allowing the dough to rest, attach a dough hook to your mixer. Begin kneading at a low speed, gradually increasing to about the third-highest setting for 10-12 minutes. The goal is to achieve a very smooth and elastic dough.
Shut the mixer off halfway to scrape down the bowl. A good test of readiness is to pull a small piece of dough. If it stretches into a translucent sheet without breaking, it is ready to rise!
First Rise
Lightly grease a mixing bowl with a bit of oil and place your kneaded dough inside. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise until it doubles in size, which should take about 1 hour.
Choose a warm spot to let the dough rise effectively, as this aids the fermentation process.
Shaping the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the excess air. Transfer it to an oiled surface and cut the dough into nine equal pieces. For even sizes, you can slice the dough into three strips and then divide each strip into three.
To shape each roll, pinch the edges towards the center, gathering the dough and rolling it into a smooth ball. Place each ball onto a lined baking tray, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart to allow for rising.
Second Rise
Cover the tray with a damp cloth and let the rolls rest for another 35-45 minutes until they double in size again. As you wait, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
This second rise is vital; it ensures that your milk bread rolls will turn out light and fluffy after baking.
Baking the Rolls
Before placing the rolls in the oven, brush the tops with a little milk for a golden finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
After baking, let the rolls cool for about 5 minutes on a cooling rack. This helps maintain their wonderful texture and prevents sogginess.
Enjoying Your Milk Bread Rolls
Now that you have mastered the art of making milk bread rolls, it is time to enjoy them! Serve them warm with butter, or use them as slider buns for juicy mini burgers. You can also fill them with delicious options, such as ham, cheese, or sweet spreads.
To add a twist, consider sprinkling sesame seeds or fresh herbs on top before baking. This small addition can add even more flavor and appeal.
Storing Your Rolls
If you have any rolls left (which may be unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, and you can savor freshly baked rolls any time. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Making milk bread rolls is a gratifying experience that results in delightful, soft rolls ideal for any meal. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create these tasty treats from scratch. As you become more comfortable with the process, feel free to try new variations and flavors. Happy baking, and enjoy your homemade milk bread rolls!
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