If you’re looking for the softest, fluffiest, slightly sweet bread that melts in your mouth sweetened condensed milk bread is the one to try. This incredibly tender and milky loaf is a classic in many Asian and international bakeries, thanks to its creamy richness and pillow-like texture. Perfect for breakfast with jam, toasted with butter, or served as a sweet sandwich bread, it’s a versatile treat that’s both nostalgic and delightful.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to make condensed milk bread from scratch, even if you’re new to baking. We’ll walk you through every step, from mixing the dough to baking it to golden perfection.
Recipe Preparation Equipment
To prepare this delicious bread recipe, gather the following kitchen equipment:
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen scale (optional, but ideal for precision)
- Stand mixer with dough hook (or mix and knead by hand)
- Silicone spatula
- Whisk
- Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel
- 9×5 inch loaf pan or pullman loaf pan
- Oven
- Pastry brush
What Do You Need to Prepare Sweetened Condensed Milk Bread?
Ingredients:
- 3 cups (375g) bread flour
- 2¼ tsp (7g) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- ⅓ cup (100g) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tbsp (25g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp salt
- Extra condensed milk or butter for brushing (optional)
How to Make Sweetened Condensed Milk Bread Step-by-Step ?
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This shows the yeast is alive and ready to go.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the egg and sweetened condensed milk. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the bread flour and salt. Mix until a rough dough begins to form. Add softened butter and knead the dough until smooth and elastic about 8–10 minutes in a stand mixer or 12–15 minutes by hand.
Step 4: First Rise (Proofing)
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape and Final Rise
Punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 3–4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball or log. Place the shaped dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover again and let it rise for another 45–60 minutes, until the dough reaches near the top of the pan.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown on top. Cover with foil halfway through if it browns too quickly.
Step 7: Brush and Cool
Optional: Brush the warm bread with melted butter or condensed milk for extra shine and flavor. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Variations
Sweetened condensed milk bread is already delightful on its own, but there are endless ways to enhance it:
- Filled Condensed Milk Bread: Add a filling such as Nutella, custard, or red bean paste before shaping the dough for a delicious twist.
- Condensed Milk Buns: Instead of a loaf, divide the dough into 8–10 small pieces and bake as buns on a tray. Perfect for serving with tea.
- Topping Options: Sprinkle the top with sesame seeds, pearl sugar, or shredded coconut for added texture and taste.
- Flavor Enhancements: Mix in vanilla extract, orange zest, or cinnamon for a more aromatic version.
- Vegan Alternative: Use plant-based butter, plant milk, and a flax egg for a dairy-free and eggless version.
Experiment with different shapes and ingredients to make this bread recipe uniquely yours.
Cooking Note
This bread thrives on proper kneading and proofing. If the dough feels too sticky at first, resist the urge to add too much flour; it should become more elastic as you knead. Bread flour is key to getting the best texture due to its higher gluten content, which helps create that signature chewiness.
Ensure your yeast is fresh and your milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly. Proofing time may vary based on your kitchen temperature. A warm, draft-free environment is best.
If you prefer a richer bread, substitute part of the milk with more condensed milk or add an extra egg yolk.
Avoid overbaking. Once golden and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C), remove it from the oven to prevent drying out.
This bread is best enjoyed within 2–3 days. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze slices for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
Sweetened condensed milk bread is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving:
- Breakfast Toast: Toast a slice and add butter, jam, or even more condensed milk for an indulgent morning treat.
- French Toast: Use thick slices to make a rich, custardy French toast.
- Snack Sandwiches: Fill slices with peanut butter and banana, or cheese and jam for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- With Tea or Coffee: A warm slice alongside tea or coffee makes for a perfect mid-morning or evening snack.
- Dessert Base: Use it as a base for bread pudding or trifle for an elevated dessert.
Helpful Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can slow down yeast activity, affecting the dough rise.
- Knead Thoroughly: A well-kneaded dough is smooth and stretchy. Perform a “windowpane test” to check if it’s ready.
- Control Proofing Time: Avoid over-proofing. If the dough rises too much, it may collapse during baking.
- Grease Your Pan Well: This helps avoid sticking and makes it easier to release the bread.
- Watch Your Oven: Every oven varies. Check your bread 5 minutes early and adjust baking time if necessary.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bread cool before slicing to avoid a gummy texture.
- Use Leftover Bread Creatively: Turn stale slices into croutons or bread crumbs.
Tips for the Best Sweetened Condensed Milk Bread
- Use bread flour for the perfect texture and structure.
- Make sure the yeast is active and bubbly before mixing.
- Knead the dough until it’s elastic and smooth for a perfect rise.
- Let the dough rest fully during proofing don’t rush!
- For a shinier finish, brush the top with milk or egg wash before baking.
Timing Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 2.5–3 hours (including rising time)
Nutritional Information (1 Slice, Estimated)
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
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FAQs
Q: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy.
Q: How do I store the bread?
Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days or freeze slices individually.
Q: Can I make this without a stand mixer?
Absolutely. It takes longer by hand but the result is just as good.
Q: What if my dough doesn’t rise?
Make sure your yeast is not expired and the milk is warm, not hot.
Q: Can I make this into rolls?
Yes! Divide the dough and shape into rolls. Bake for 20 minutes instead.
Conclusion
This sweetened condensed milk bread recipe brings bakery-quality results right to your kitchen. With its rich, milky flavor and pillowy softness, it’s sure to become a staple in your homemade baking collection.
Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or a dessert base, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. Try it once and you’ll fall in love with its tender crumb and subtly sweet flavor.
Enjoy your baking! 🍞💛
