Hello to all our passionate bakers out there! Whether you're a novice just starting out or an experienced chef, we all share a common dream: the dream of baking that perfect loaf of bread, soft and fluffy to its core. If you've been asking yourself questions like "How do bakeries get their bread so soft?", "What is the secret to soft bread?", or "Does oil or butter make softer bread?", you're in the right place. Let's dive into the magical world of bread-making, and unveil some secrets together.

What Makes Bread Fluffy and Light?

A fluffy loaf starts with the perfect balance of ingredients, the right kneading technique, and of course, a little bit of magic: Scratch Premium Dough Conditioner. Our little secret weapon, this conditioner strengthens the gluten and starch in your dough, ensuring smoother, longer-lasting bread loaves. Whether you're working with whole wheat or white flour, this conditioner ensures your bread remains soft, stretchy, and delightful.

What is the Best Flour for Soft Bread?

While the choice of flour can vary based on personal preference, the addition of Scratch Vital Wheat Gluten to whole wheat recipes can elevate its texture. This combination brings the dough closer to the softness achieved with refined flours, answering the age-old question: "What makes bread soft and heavy?"

The Role of Wet Ingredients: From Milk to Butter

Ever pondered, "Does sugar make bread soft?" or "Why does milk make bread soft?" These wet ingredients play a crucial role. Butter, for instance, lends softness and flavor. Milk, especially when brushed on the crust before baking, imparts a soft, golden hue to the bread. Some even swear by milk powder, as it enhances the bread's texture and richness. If you're in a fix deciding between milk or water, remember: milk offers softness, while water gives a chewy texture.

Knead to Know: The Art of Dough Handling

More kneading can lead to softer bread. However, over-kneading can make it tough. It's a delicate balance! Add in our dough conditioner as per the simple instructions, and you'll consistently hit the sweet spot. Just 1 teaspoon for every cup of flour, and voilà!

Baking Like a Pro: It's Easier Than You Think

How do bakeries make such soft bread? Apart from their techniques, many professionals use dough conditioners. Our Scratch dough conditioner is a favorite among many, not just because of the amazing texture it imparts, but also because it enhances the overall flavor of the bread.

Troubleshooting Common Queries

• "Why does my bread not come out soft?"

• Check the freshness of your ingredients, ensure accurate measurements, and consider adding Scratch dough conditioner to your mix!

• "Can I use milk instead of water in my bread machine?"

• Absolutely! Milk can replace water for a softer texture. Just ensure to adjust other wet ingredients to maintain the dough's consistency.

• "What does adding egg to bread dough do?"

• Eggs enhance the bread's richness, softness, and color.

Wrapping It Up: From Scratch to Perfect Loaf

At Scratch, based in the sunny Phoenix, AZ, we're passionate about cooking and baking from the heart. We believe in the joy of cooking with quality ingredients. Our products, sourced and manufactured in the US, uphold the highest quality standards, ensuring you always have the best in hand.

So, next time you're in the kitchen, hoping to achieve bakery-like perfection, remember: with the right ingredients and a little love (and maybe a dash of Scratch Dough Conditioner!), that dreamy loaf is just an oven away.

Happy baking, everyone!