Description
Strawberry Milk Bread is a beautifully soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread infused with the delightful flavor of strawberries and creamy milk. Inspired by the famous Japanese milk bread known for its cloud-like texture, this strawberry version takes homemade bread to a whole new level by adding fresh strawberry flavor and a gorgeous pink hue.
Ingredients
For the Tangzhong (Milk Bread Starter)
- 3 tablespoons bread flour
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons water
For the Dough
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 cup strawberry puree
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1 large egg
- Tangzhong mixture
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Strawberry Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons strawberry puree
- 1 tablespoon milk
Optional Garnish
- Freeze-dried strawberry crumbs
- Fresh strawberry slices
- Powdered sugar
- White chocolate drizzle
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
Wash and hull fresh strawberries.
Blend until smooth.
Measure out 1/2 cup for the dough and reserve extra for the glaze.
If desired, strain to remove seeds.
Step 2: Make the Tangzhong
In a small saucepan, whisk together:
- Bread flour
- Milk
- Water
Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly.
Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth paste.
Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
This step helps create the signature soft milk bread texture.
Step 3: Mix the Dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer combine:
- Bread flour
- Sugar
- Salt
- Instant yeast
Add:
- Strawberry puree
- Warm milk
- Egg
- Cooled Tangzhong
Mix until a rough dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Knead for 5 minutes.
Gradually add softened butter one tablespoon at a time.
Continue kneading for 10–12 minutes until the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
The dough should pass the windowpane test when stretched.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl.
Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel.
Allow to rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Punch down the dough gently.
Divide into three equal portions.
Roll each portion into a rectangle.
Roll tightly into logs.
Place side by side in a greased loaf pan.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the loaf pan loosely.
Allow the dough to rise for 45–60 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush the top with milk or egg wash for a shiny finish.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Step 9: Cool Completely
Remove from the oven.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely.
Step 10: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze
Whisk together:
- Powdered sugar
- Strawberry puree
- Milk
Drizzle over the cooled bread.
Allow the glaze to set before slicing.
Notes
Fresh strawberries contain moisture levels that vary. If the dough feels too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time. If it feels dry, add a small amount of milk. The Tangzhong method is essential for achieving the signature soft texture and helps the bread stay fresh longer.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 220
- Sodium: 180mg
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Protein: 5g