1. Make the Dough
In a stand mixer bowl, whisk together warm milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla.
Add flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix with dough hook for 2 minutes on low.
Increase to medium speed and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic (the dough should clean the bowl sides).
2. First Rise
Place dough in greased bowl, cover with damp towel
Let rise in warm place for 1-1.5 hours until doubled
3. Shape the Loaf
Punch down dough and divide into 3 equal parts
Roll each into oval shapes (about 8x5 inches)
Roll up tightly from short end and place seam-side down in greased 9x5 loaf pan
Repeat with remaining dough pieces
4. Final Rise
Cover and let rise 45-60 minutes until dough crowns 1" above pan
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Brush with egg wash (for shiny crust)
Bake 30-35 minutes until deep golden brown
Internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C)
Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack
Pro Tips for Bakery-Worthy Results
🌟 Use bread flour for the softest, fluffiest texture
🌟 Don't skip the egg wash – it gives that beautiful glossy finish
🌟 Add vanilla bean seeds for gorgeous speckles and extra flavor
🌟 Try the "Tangzhong method" (heat 3 tbsp flour + 1/2 cup milk to 149°F/65°C then cool before adding) for even softer bread
🌟 Store properly – Keep in bread box for 3 days or freeze sliced for up to 2 months
Creative Variations to Try
🍫 Chocolate Swirl – Add cocoa powder to one portion of dough
🍞 Cinnamon Sugar – Roll with cinnamon-sugar filling
🍯 Honey Butter – Brush warm loaf with honey-butter mixture
🍓 Fruit & Cream – Add dried fruit and cream cheese filling