Custard-Filled Sweet Bread Recipe

ByAngela

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why some homemade breads are irresistibly fluffy and filled with delicious custard? The secret lies in the perfect balance of ingredients and techniques that create a delightful treat. In this blog post, we’ll explore a custard-filled sweet bread recipe that’s not only simple to follow but also yields mouthwatering results. Did you know that sweet bread has been a beloved staple in many cultures around the world? This recipe combines tradition with modern twists, ensuring you can impress your family and friends with every bite.

Ingredients List

Creating the perfect custard-filled sweet bread starts with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Sweet Bread Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (can substitute with almond or oat milk)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
  • 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan alternative)

For the Custard Filling:

  • 2 cups whole milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:

  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Cinnamon for an added flavor twist

Sensory Descriptions:

Imagine the aroma of warm bread wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the sweet scent of vanilla custard. This recipe not only fills your home with delightful smells but also ensures every bite is a perfect blend of sweetness and creaminess.

Timing

Understanding the timing of this recipe is crucial for a successful baking experience. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Resting Time: 1 hour (for dough to rise)
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours (which is 20% less time than the average sweet bread recipe)

This efficient timing allows you to enjoy freshly baked custard-filled bread without spending your entire day in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix well.
  2. In a separate bowl, warm the milk until it’s just lukewarm (not hot). Add the melted butter and eggs, whisking until combined.
  3. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

  1. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
    • Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 3: First Rise

  1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Make the Custard Filling

  1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s steaming but not boiling.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
  3. Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
  4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool.

Step 5: Shape the Bread

  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface.
  2. Roll it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Spread the cooled custard filling evenly over the dough.
  3. Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, forming a log. Pinch the seams to seal.

Step 6: Second Rise

  1. Cut the log into equal pieces (about 12). Place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.
  2. Cover the dish with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the sweet bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  • Tip: Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content can help you make informed choices. Here’s a breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 10g

Nutritional Insights:

Replacing whole milk with almond milk can reduce calories and fat, making this recipe more suitable for those watching their intake.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this custard-filled sweet bread healthier, consider these modifications:

  • Use Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
  • Reduce Sugar: Cut the sugar in both the dough and custard filling by 25% without sacrificing taste.
  • Add Fruits: Incorporate fruits like blueberries or raspberries into the custard for added nutrients and natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This custard-filled sweet bread is versatile and can be served in various ways:

  • Breakfast Treat: Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey.
  • Dessert Option: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
  • Tea Time Snack: Slice thinly and serve with tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.

Personalized Tips:

Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for an extra layer of flavor that will surprise your taste buds!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, but avoiding these common mistakes can lead to better results:

  1. Not Proofing the Yeast: Always ensure your yeast is active. If it doesn’t bubble when mixed with warm water, it’s not good to use.
  2. Over-Kneading the Dough: Knead just until the dough is smooth to avoid tough bread.
  3. Skipping the Second Rise: This step is crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your custard-filled sweet bread fresh:

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigeration: For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Conclusion

In summary, this custard-filled sweet bread recipe combines simplicity with deliciousness, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. From its fluffy texture to the creamy custard filling, every bite is a delight. Try it today and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe for more delicious recipes!

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and butter.

2. How can I make the custard filling thicker?

Ensure you cook the custard over medium heat and whisk continuously until it reaches the desired thickness.

3. Can I add chocolate to the filling?

Absolutely! You can mix in chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a chocolate custard variation.

4. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

Check the freshness of your yeast and ensure that the environment is warm enough for rising.

5. Can I use different flavors for the custard?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon for unique flavor profiles.

Custard-Filled Sweet Bread Recipe

Custard-Filled Sweet Bread Recipe

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Additional Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • For the Sweet Bread Dough:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (can substitute with almond or oat milk)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
  • 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan alternative)
  • For the Custard Filling:
  • 2 cups whole milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional Toppings:
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Cinnamon for an added flavor twist

Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare the Dough

    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix well.
    2. In a separate bowl, warm the milk until it’s just lukewarm (not hot). Add the melted butter and eggs, whisking until combined.
    3. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.

    Step 2: Knead the Dough

    1. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
    2. Tip: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.

    Step 3: First Rise

    1. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

    Step 4: Make the Custard Filling

    1. In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s steaming but not boiling.
    2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, cornstarch, and salt until smooth.
    3. Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
    4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool.

    Step 5: Shape the Bread

    1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface.
    2. Roll it into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Spread the cooled custard filling evenly over the dough.
    3. Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, forming a log. Pinch the seams to seal.

    Step 6: Second Rise

    1. Cut the log into equal pieces (about 12). Place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.
    2. Cover the dish with a cloth and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

    Step 7: Bake

    1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the sweet bread for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
  • Tip: Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm.
© Angela
Category: DESSERT