Country: France Servings: Serves 6-8

Ingredients

• all-purpose flour – 3 1/2 cups / 420 g
• milk – 1 cup / 240 ml
• water – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
• unsalted butter – 4 tbsp / 60 g
• sugar – 2 tbsp / 25 g
• salt – 1 1/2 tsp / 9 g
• active dry yeast – 2 tsp / 7 g

Instructions

1. Warm the milk and water to 110°F (43°C) and dissolve the yeast with a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter.
3. Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
5. Deflate and shape the dough into a rectangle, fit into a greased lidded bread pan, and cover.
6. Let the dough rise again for 60 minutes until it reaches near the top of the pan.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bread with the lid on for 35 minutes.
8. Remove the lid and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden.
9. Cool on a rack before slicing.

Substitutions

• milk -> almond milk
• unsalted butter -> margarine
• all-purpose flour -> bread flour

Enhancements in the Next Evolution

• Use a sponge method for more flavor.
• Add 1 tablespoon of honey for a hint of sweetness.
• Use bread flour for a richer texture.