Ingredients:

  • 3 ½ cups (430g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 4 large eggs
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup (60ml) whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon water or milk

Instructions:

  1. Mix warm milk with a pinch of sugar and yeast; let sit until foamy, about 5-10 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add eggs, activated yeast mixture, and remaining milk; mix until combined.
  3. Knead with a dough hook on low speed for about 5 minutes. Gradually add softened butter, kneading until smooth and elastic, about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Cover and let rise at room temperature until doubled in size (1-2 hours).
  5. Punch down the dough, transfer to a greased bowl, cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  6. Remove dough from fridge, punch down, shape into a loaf, and place into a greased pan or baking sheet.
  7. Let rise until nearly doubled (~1 hour). During this stage, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  8. Beat one egg with water or milk to make an egg wash; brush the top of the loaf. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Transfer to a rack and let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.