In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir gently and allow it to bloom for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, and iodized salt.

Add the evaporated milk, bloomed yeast mixture, and room-temperature butter.

Mix until a rough dough forms.

Transfer the dough onto a clean work surface.

Knead for 10 to 15 minutes until smooth and elastic. Avoid adding excessive flour even if the dough feels sticky during the first few minutes.

Lightly coat the dough with cooking oil.

Place it inside a lightly greased bowl and cover.

Allow the dough to rise for 1 to 2 hours or until doubled in size.

Gently punch down the dough to release excess air.

Divide into 8 equal portions.

Shape each portion into a smooth ball.

Arrange them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Using clean kitchen scissors, make a shallow cross cut on top of each dough.

Cover and allow to rise again for about 10 minutes.

Mix together one egg and one tablespoon evaporated milk to make the egg wash.

Brush each dough generously with the egg wash.

Sprinkle white sugar generously over each piece.

Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C for 22 to 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Let the bread cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked homemade Star Bread or Putok Bread.