Pullman bread

Pullman bread, also known as pain de mie, is a soft, square-shaped bread with a fine crumb and slightly sweet flavor. It is commonly used for sandwiches, toast, and French toast. The bread is baked in a Pullman loaf pan, which gives it its signature shape and smooth crust.

Ingredients

• 3 ¾ cups (450g) bread flour
• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 egg

Directions

1. Activate Yeast:
2. In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
4. Mix Dough:
5. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
6. Add the yeast mixture, butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
8. Knead:
9. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
11. First Rise:
12. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
13. Shape & Second Rise:
15. Punch down dough, shape it into a log, and place it in a greased Pullman loaf pan.
16. Cover and let it rise for 30–45 minutes until the dough reaches near the top of the pan.
18. Bake:
19. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
20. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes.
21. Remove the lid and bake for another 5–10 minutes for a golden top.
23. Cool & Serve:
24. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.