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Turkish milk bread in a pan

Turkish Milk Bread, also known as “Sütlü Ekmek,” is a soft and fluffy bread with a slightly sweet flavor. This bread is traditionally made with milk, which gives it its rich texture and beautiful golden crust. The best part? You can easily make this delicious bread in a pan on your stovetop, without needing an oven.

Why You’ll Love Turkish Milk Bread in a Pan

  • Soft and Fluffy: The milk gives the bread a tender, pillowy texture that’s perfect for sandwiches, toasting, or enjoying plain.
  • No Oven Needed: This recipe is cooked in a pan, making it accessible even without an oven.
  • Simple Ingredients: Easy to make with basic pantry ingredients.

Key Ingredients

To make this delicious Turkish Milk Bread in a pan, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 ½ cups.
  • Warm Milk: ¾ cup (around 100°F or 38°C).
  • Active Dry Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet).
  • Sugar: 2 tablespoons.
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon.
  • Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted.
  • Egg: 1 large.

For Cooking:

  • Butter or Olive Oil: For greasing the pan.

How to Make Turkish Milk Bread in a Pan

1. Activate the Yeast

  • Mix the Yeast and Milk: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.

2. Prepare the Dough

  • Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until the dough comes together.
  • Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can also knead using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.

3. Let the Dough Rise

  • First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

4. Shape the Dough

  • Divide and Shape: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into small equal portions (about the size of a golf ball). Shape each portion into a smooth ball.

5. Cook the Bread in a Pan

  • Preheat the Pan: Heat a large, non-stick pan or skillet over low to medium heat and lightly grease with butter or olive oil.
  • Cook the Bread: Place the shaped dough balls in the pan, leaving some space between them. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 8-10 minutes on one side, or until golden brown.
  • Flip and Cook: Carefully flip the bread balls and cook for another 6-8 minutes on the other side, until the bread is fully cooked and golden on both sides.

6. Serve

  • Cool Slightly and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the bread to a wire rack and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with butter, jam, or your favorite dips.

Tips for the Best Turkish Milk Bread in a Pan

  • Control the Heat: Cook the bread on low to medium heat to ensure it cooks evenly without burning.
  • Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active for a good rise in the dough.
  • Soft Dough: Don’t add too much flour when kneading. The dough should be soft but not sticky for the fluffiest bread.

Variations of Turkish Milk Bread in a Pan

1. Herb-Infused Bread

Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the dough for an aromatic twist.

2. Cheesy Milk Bread

Stuff each dough ball with a small cube of cheese before cooking for a gooey, cheesy center.

3. Sweet Milk Bread

Increase the sugar to ¼ cup and brush the tops of the bread with honey or sugar syrup after cooking for a sweeter version.

Health Benefits

  • Rich in Protein and Calcium: The milk and egg in the dough provide protein and calcium, making this bread more nutritious.
  • No Preservatives: Homemade bread is free from preservatives and additives found in store-bought versions.
  • Versatile: This bread is suitable for both sweet and savory meals, making it a healthy addition to any meal plan.

FAQs About Turkish Milk Bread in a Pan

Can I make this bread without eggs?

Yes, you can make the bread without eggs. Simply omit the egg, and you may need to adjust the milk quantity slightly.

How long does this bread stay fresh?

This bread stays fresh for about 2 days when stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze the bread for up to 2 months.

Can I make this bread with whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, though the bread may be denser.

Can I add fillings to the bread?

Absolutely! You can stuff the bread with cheese, cooked spinach, or even minced meat for a more filling snack.

Conclusion

Turkish Milk Bread in a Pan is a wonderfully soft and fluffy bread that’s perfect for any meal. Whether served with breakfast, as a snack, or alongside a main dish, this homemade bread is sure to become a family favorite. The fact that it can be cooked in a pan makes it even more accessible for those without an oven. For more easy bread recipes, check out our Homemade Bread Recipe or explore Quick Bread Ideas for more inspiration!

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