4. Final Rise
Cover and let rise 45-60 minutes until dough crowns 1″ above pan
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Brush with egg wash (for shiny crust)
Bake 30-35 minutes until deep golden brown
Internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C)
Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack
Pro Tips for Bakery-Worthy Results
🌟 Use bread flour for the softest, fluffiest texture
🌟 Don’t skip the egg wash – it gives that beautiful glossy finish
🌟 Add vanilla bean seeds for gorgeous speckles and extra flavor
🌟 Try the “Tangzhong method” (heat 3 tbsp flour + 1/2 cup milk to 149°F/65°C then cool before adding) for even softer bread
🌟 Store properly – Keep in bread box for 3 days or freeze sliced for up to 2 months
Creative Variations to Try
🍫 Chocolate Swirl – Add cocoa powder to one portion of dough
🍞 Cinnamon Sugar – Roll with cinnamon-sugar filling
🍯 Honey Butter – Brush warm loaf with honey-butter mixture
🍓 Fruit & Cream – Add dried fruit and cream cheese filling
