SMALL LOAF PAIN DE MIE

Steps:

• Mix all of the ingredients in the order listed, and mix and knead - by hand, or using a stand mixer - to make a smooth dough. It won't be particularly soft nor stiff; it should be smooth and feel bouncy and elastic under your hands.
• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, or large (8-cup) measuring cup. Cover it, and let it rise for 60 to 90 minutes, till it's become quite puffy, though not necessarily doubled in size.
• Gently deflate the dough, and shape it into a 9" log. Place it in a lightly greased 9" pain de mie pan. Cover the top of the pan with plastic wrap, to protect the dough as it rises.
• Let the dough rise for about 60 minutes, till it's within about 1/2" of the top edge of the pan. Towards the end of the rising time, preheat the oven to 350°F.
• Remove the plastic wrap, and slide the greased lid onto the pan. Bake the bread for 25 minutes. Remove the lid, and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, till it's a rich golden brown. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center will read 195°F to 200°F If you prefer a lighter-colored crust, tent the loaf with foil as soon as you remove the pan lid.
• Remove the bread from the oven, and turn it out onto a rack to cool. When completely cool, wrap in plastic, and store at room temperature.