How to make Butter Bread

Calendar icon Published: Jul 10th 2021 by Rachael Ottier Hart
Clock icon Last updated: Dec 15th 2024
Read time: 4 mins
Cuisine:
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Front shot of Butter Bread on top of wood board

Butter Bread is a rich, soft, and irresistible loaf that fills your kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma the moment it bakes. Whether you're looking for the perfect sandwich bread or a simple treat with just a pat of butter, this classic recipe is a must-try. Made with simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, margarine, and full-cream milk, this loaf delivers the ultimate in comfort and taste. For a heartwarming addition to any meal, or a cozy brunch, this Butter Bread recipe promises an unforgettable flavor experience.

You’ll love this Butter Bread for its pillowy texture and creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with both sweet and savory spreads. It's easy to make, filling, and great for making sandwiches or simply enjoying a slice with butter. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike!

  • Use a stand mixer to ensure your dough is well combined and kneaded to perfection.
  • Spritz the dough with water before baking to help achieve a beautiful golden crust.
  • Allow the bread to rest on a wire rack after baking for the best texture.

Serve Butter Bread warm with a slather of butter, jam, or your favorite spread. It also pairs beautifully with soups, salads, or makes a perfect sandwich base for ham, cheese, or veggie fillings.

  • Margarine: You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
  • Full Cream Milk: If you’re lactose intolerant, use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
  • Brown Sugar: Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a healthier alternative.

Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. To refresh the frozen bread, warm it in the oven for a few minutes.

  • All-Purpose Flour: The base of the bread, giving it structure and softness.
  • Bread Margarine: Adds a rich, creamy flavor to the dough.
  • Instant Yeast: Helps the bread rise and become airy.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the flavors.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall taste and balances the sweetness.
  • Full Cream Liquid Milk: Provides moisture and richness to the dough.
  • Water: Hydrates the dough, ensuring a soft texture.

Can I make Butter Bread without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can knead the dough by hand, but it may take longer to achieve the same silky texture. Hand kneading typically takes about 10-15 minutes.

Can I freeze Butter Bread dough for later?

Yes, you can freeze the dough after shaping it into loaves. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to one month. Thaw and bake as directed.

Can I make Butter Bread with whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the bread may turn out denser. Try using half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat for a balanced texture.

How to make Butter Bread

To make Butter Bread, start by combining the dry ingredients—flour, yeast, sugar, and salt—in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Slowly add the milk and water, mixing at medium speed until the dough forms a ball. Increase the speed, adding more water as needed, until the dough becomes silky and firm. 

Let the dough rest in a covered, oiled bowl for about 10 minutes. Divide it into four portions, shaping each into a torpedo. After allowing it to rise in an airtight space for about 45 minutes, bake the loaves in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35-45 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before serving.

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Time & Serves

Prep Time
90 mins
Cook Time
30 mins
Total Time
120 mins
Serves
4 persons

Ingredients

  • 1000g All-Purpose Flour

  • 50 g Bread Margarine

  • 10 g Instant Yeast

  • 50 g Brown Sugar

  • 15 g Salt

  • 100 g Full Cream Liquid Milk

  • 400 g Water

Instructions

Mix all dry ingredients in a stand-up mixer, using the paddle attachment, at slow speed for 2 minutes.

Add the milk and 3/4 water and run the mixer at medium speed for 2 minutes.

Run at high speed. Add water – a little at a time – and beat until the dough is firm, silky and forms into a ball.

Remove, place in a slightly oiled bowl, cover the bowl and allow the dough to rest in a cool place for 10 minutes.

Remove from the bowl and cut into four pieces. Work each into a torpedo shape. Place on a greased sheet pan. Spritz over dough slightly with water.

Rest in an airtight space for 45 minutes or until double in size.

Preheat the oven to 350F and prepare the middle shelf.

Bake the loaves for 35-45 minutes, depending on your oven, until golden brown. Do not open the oven until ready to remove.

Remove from the oven and place on a wire rack to cool for at least 30 minutes.

Eat and enjoy!

Best served warm with your favorite cheese, ham, or other sandwich filler.

Rachael Ottier Hart
Author:
Culinary Storyteller & Spa Manager

More posts by Rachael Ottier Hart

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