10 May 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 120 min
Ingredients:
1 cup milk (1% fat)
1 tbsp condensed milk
1 yolk
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp yeast
3 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp butter
Japanese-style condensed milk bread is a deliciously soft and mildly sweet bread that beautifully showcases the creamy richness of condensed milk. This bread is perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack any time of the day. Its tender crumb and subtle sweetness make it a favorite among both kids and adults. Let's dive into the recipe and learn how to make this delectable treat!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
- Warm the milk until it is lukewarm (about 100°F or 38°C). Be sure not to overheat it.
- Mix the warm milk with the sugar in a large mixing bowl until the sugar is dissolved.
- Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture, stir gently, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Create the Dough:
- To the yeast mixture, add the condensed milk and egg yolk. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, combining with a wooden spoon or a stand mixer set on low speed with a dough hook attachment.
- Knead the dough. If using your hands, transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead on medium speed for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Incorporate the Butter:
- Once the dough is smooth and elastic, add the softened butter.
- Knead until the butter is fully incorporated into the dough. This might be a bit messy initially, but keep kneading until the dough absorbs the butter and becomes smooth and shiny again.
4. First Rise:
- Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any trapped air.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and divide it into equal portions, depending on your preferred loaf or roll sizes.
- Shape the dough into your desired form (e.g., loaves or rolls).
6. Second Rise:
- Place the shaped dough into a greased baking pan or onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and allow it to rise again in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
7. Bake the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough has risen, you can brush the tops with an optional egg wash (a beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water) for a glossy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
8. Cool and Enjoy:
- Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack.
- Slice and enjoy your Japanese-style condensed milk bread, either plain or with your favorite spread.
Tips:
- Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best consistency in the dough.
- Be patient with the dough rising process; allowing adequate time for the yeast to work its magic will result in a fluffier bread.
- If you prefer a lighter or darker crust, you can adjust the baking time slightly, but keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
- For a shinier and softer crust, consider brushing the loaf with a little melted butter right after it comes out of the oven.
- Store any leftover bread in an airtight container to maintain its softness. If needed, slightly warm it in the microwave or toaster before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.
There you have it – a wonderful loaf of Japanese-style condensed milk bread! The bread should have a beautiful golden crust and a soft, airy interior. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, or savor it toasted with some additional butter or jam. This bread is a perfect way to bring a little taste of Japan into your home. Happy baking!