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pullman bread recipe​

Pullman Bread Recipe

Pullman Bread, also known as Pain de Mie, is a classic bread with a soft, tender crumb and perfectly square shape. Baked in a Pullman loaf pan, this bread is enriched with ingredients like butter, milk, and sugar to give it a mild sweetness and smooth texture. The result is a versatile loaf perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a base for gourmet dishes like bread pudding. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just beginning, this Pullman Bread Recipe delivers a beautiful loaf with fine, even slices every time.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Proofing Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Bread
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 packet 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm milk about 110°F/45°C
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 large egg optional, for a slightly richer dough
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil for greasing the pan

Equipment

  • Pullman loaf pan (9x4x4 inches, with lid)
  • Mixing bowls (one for dry ingredients, one for wet)
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Dough hook or spatula
  • Rolling pin (optional, if needed for shaping the dough)
  • Oven
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the activated yeast mixture, butter, and water to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough starts to come together. If using an egg, add it at this point. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment or mix by hand with a spatula.
  4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer to knead the dough for 5-6 minutes on medium speed.
  5. First Rise: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
  6. Shape the Dough: Punch the dough down to release air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a rectangular shape that will fit into your Pullman loaf pan. Roll the dough tightly, ensuring it fits the pan's dimensions.
  7. Second Rise: Place the dough into the oiled Pullman loaf pan. Cover the pan with a lid or plastic wrap and let the dough rise for another 30-40 minutes until it has risen to about 1/2 inch below the top of the pan.
  8. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  9. Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bread should have a golden brown crust, and when tapped, it should sound hollow. If using a Pullman pan with a lid, remove the lid for the final 5-10 minutes to allow the top to brown.
  10. Cool: Remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Storage: Pullman bread can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days in an airtight container or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread for up to 1 month.
Flour Substitution: For a slightly denser loaf, you can replace up to 1/2 of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
Optional Add-ins: You can add herbs, seeds, or dried fruit to the dough for variations in flavor.
Egg-Free Version: If you prefer an egg-free recipe, simply omit the egg and adjust the water content slightly if needed.
pullman bread recipe​
 
pullman bread recipe​