Sweet Bread with Cream Filling Recipe

This Sweet Bread with Cream Filling is a delightful treat featuring soft, fluffy dough paired with a smooth and creamy vanilla custard. Perfect for breakfast, tea time, or dessert, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Rising Time: 1.5–2 hours
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~2.5–3 hours

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 egg
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp yeast (active dry or instant)
  • 180 ml (3/4 cup) warm milk
  • 40 g (2 tbsp) butter, melted
  • 400 g (2.5 cups) all-purpose flour

For the Cream Filling:

  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch or flour
  • 250 ml (1 cup) milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla sugar

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

  1. Activate the Yeast (if needed):
    • In a small bowl, mix warm milk, 1 tsp yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar (from the 3 tbsp). Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. Skip this step if using instant yeast.
  2. Mix the Dough Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture (or instant yeast) and melted butter. Gradually add the flour while mixing until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough:
    • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. First Rise:
    • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Cream Filling:

  1. Mix Ingredients:
    • In a saucepan, whisk together the egg, sugar, and cornstarch (or flour) until smooth. Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps.
  2. Cook the Cream:
    • Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a creamy custard. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla sugar. Let cool completely before using.

Assemble the Bread:

  1. Shape the Dough:
    • Punch down the risen dough and divide it into equal portions (8–10 pieces, depending on preference). Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
  2. Fill with Cream:
    • Spoon a small amount of the cream filling into the center of each flattened dough ball. Pinch the edges together to seal, forming a smooth ball.
  3. Second Rise:
    • Arrange the filled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a greased baking dish, seam-side down. Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes.

Bake the Bread:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. Bake:
    • Brush the tops of the dough balls with milk or egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve:

  • Let the bread cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

  • Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a decorative touch.
  • Serve with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure the milk for the dough is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • The cream filling can be made ahead of time and chilled until ready to use.
  • Adjust sweetness to taste by adding more sugar to the cream if desired.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Eggs: Provide protein and essential vitamins.
  • Milk: Adds calcium and creaminess.
  • Yeast-based dough: Offers a lighter, airier texture compared to dense breads.

Dietary Information

  • Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
  • Not suitable for vegan or gluten-free diets but can be adapted with substitutions.

Nutritional Facts (per piece, based on 10 servings)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Sugar: 8 g

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerate for up to 5 days, and reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
  • Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and warm before enjoying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Soft, fluffy bread filled with creamy, rich vanilla custard.
  • Perfect for gatherings, family meals, or an indulgent treat.
  • Versatile and customizable with different fillings like chocolate or jam.
  • Easy to make with basic ingredients and straightforward steps.

Conclusion This Sweet Bread with Cream Filling is a delightful recipe that combines the fluffiness of fresh bread with the smoothness of vanilla custard. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion, and sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a warm, comforting homemade treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use instant yeast?
    Yes, skip the activation step and mix it directly into the dry ingredients.
  2. Can I use other fillings?
    Absolutely! Try chocolate, fruit jam, or cream cheese for variety.
  3. Can I make this dough without eggs?
    Replace the egg with 3 tbsp of yogurt or 1/4 cup of applesauce for an egg-free version.
  4. How do I store leftovers?
    Store at room temperature in an airtight container for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  5. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
    Yes, let the shaped dough rise in the fridge overnight and bake the next day.
  6. What type of flour is best?
    Bread flour works best, but all-purpose flour can also be used.
  7. Why is my dough not rising?
    Ensure your yeast is active and the milk is warm, not hot.
  8. Can I freeze the dough?
    Yes, freeze the shaped dough after the first rise. Thaw, proof, and bake when ready.
  9. What can I use instead of vanilla sugar?
    Use 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste.
  10. Can I make mini versions?
    Yes, divide the dough into smaller portions and reduce the baking time slightly.