1. Can I make Shokupan without a stand mixer

Yes, you can absolutely make Shokupan without a stand mixer. While a stand mixer makes the kneading process easier, you can knead the dough by hand for about 20 minutes until it's smooth and elastic. Just be sure to keep the dough moist and properly kneaded for the best results.

2. Can I substitute bread flour with all-purpose flour

While it's best to use bread flour for Shokupan, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour. However, the texture may not be as soft or as airy as with bread flour since all-purpose flour has less protein, which affects the bread’s rise.

3. How long can I store Shokupan

Shokupan stays moist for several days due to its fluffy texture. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, slice it and freeze it in a ziplock bag for up to one month.

4. Can I make a bigger loaf of Shokupan

Yes, you can scale up the recipe for a larger loaf. Simply adjust the ingredients in proportion, ensuring you maintain the correct ratios for the Yudane method and dough preparation. Be sure to use a larger loaf pan and increase the baking time slightly, checking for doneness by tapping the bottom of the loaf to ensure it's cooked through.

Shokupan: Perfect Japanese Fluffy White Bread Recipe

Name: Shokupan
Prep time: 2 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 50g Bread flour (for Yudane); 40ml Boiling water; 150ml Milk (room temperature); 15g Sugar; 3g Instant dry yeast; 10g Unsalted butter (room temperature); 200g Bread flour; 5g Salt

Description

Shokupan, also known as Japanese milk bread, is a soft, fluffy white bread made using the Yudane method. This bread is moist, tender, and perfect for sandwiches, toast, or enjoying with butter and jam. The Yudane method ensures a texture that stays fresh and soft for days, making it a delightful and versatile addition to your bread-baking repertoire.

Ingredients

Scale

50g Bread flour (for Yudane)
40ml Boiling water
150ml Milk (room temperature)
15g Sugar
3g Instant dry yeast
10g Unsalted butter (room temperature)
200g Bread flour
5g Salt

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Yudane the night before: Combine 50g bread flour with 40ml of boiling water, mix well, and let it cool. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
In a stand mixer bowl, pour 150ml room temperature milk. Add 15g sugar, 3g instant yeast, and 10g softened butter. Tear the Yudane into small pieces and add it to the bowl.
Add 200g bread flour and 5g salt. Attach the kneading hook to the stand mixer and knead on low speed to combine. Increase speed to medium and knead for 20 minutes until smooth.
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise for 45-60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down, divide it into two equal pieces, and roll them into balls. Let the dough rest for 20 minutes.
Roll each ball into a rectangle (approximately 15×20 cm). Fold the edges toward the center, then roll it tightly into a log.
Place the rolled dough into a greased loaf pan and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise for an additional 30 minutes until the dough has risen to the top of the pan.
Preheat the oven to 365°F (185°C). Once the dough has risen, bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack.

Notes

For best results, rest the Yudane for at least 8 hours before using it in the dough.
The dough rises best in a warm, draft-free environment. Use the oven’s low heat setting or a warm box to help speed up the process.
Slice the bread only after it has cooled completely to avoid squishing it.
For dairy-free options, use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 150
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 240mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg