Shokupan (Japanese Milk Bread)

Description

Shokupan, also known as Japanese Milk Bread, is loved for its soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor, ideal for sandwiches and toast.

Instructions

1. 1. Prepare Yudane: In a small saucepan, combine 150g of water and 150g of bread flour. Heat until just below boiling, stirring continuously until a smooth paste forms. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. 2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
3. 3. Add the milk, softened butter, and Yudane mixture to the dry ingredients.
4. 4. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 10-15 minutes.
5. 5. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
6. 6. Punch down the dough and divide it into three equal pieces. Shape each piece into a rectangle.
7. 7. Roll each rectangle and place them in a greased loaf pan.
8. 8. Cover and let it rise again until it reaches the top of the pan, about 30-60 minutes.
9. 9. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
10. 10. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
11. 11. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.