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. 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.

1. 1. 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.
      • • Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.Knead the Dough:
   2. 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. 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.

1. 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. 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. 1. Preheat the Oven:
      • Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

1. 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!