Save This easy sweet condensed milk bread is my go-to whenever I want a homemade treat that is soft fluffy and just rich enough without being complicated. With just a bowl and a little bit of kneading you can have a bakery-worthy bread that is perfect for breakfast snacking or as a sweet gift.
The first time I made this bread I was amazed by how the sweet aroma filled the kitchen. My family devoured it in record time and now it is a regular part of our weekend breakfasts.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: gives structure and softness to the bread choose a good quality unbleached flour for the best crumb
- Active dry yeast: is what brings the dough to life make sure your packet is fresh and the milk is warm not hot for maximum rise
- Warm milk: adds extra tenderness to the dough whole milk works best here
- Sweetened condensed milk: is the hero ingredient lending sweetness moistness and a slight caramel note pick a brand with simple ingredients
- Large egg: adds richness and binds everything together room temperature eggs blend best
- Unsalted butter: creates that melt-in-your mouth finish go for European style butter if you want a creamy flavor
- Salt: balances the sweetness do not skip or the bread can taste flat
- Extra condensed milk and butter for brushing: makes the crust shiny and soft
Instructions
- Proof the Yeast:
- Pour warm milk into a small bowl and sprinkle in the yeast. Let it sit for five to ten minutes until a layer of frothy bubbles forms on top. This means your yeast is active and ready.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl whisk together the flour and salt thoroughly so the salt is evenly distributed. This helps every bite taste just right.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Add the foamy yeast mixture condensed milk egg and softened butter to the flour mixture. Stir everything together until a shaggy dough forms and no dry flour remains.
- Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface or keep it in the mixer. Knead by hand for eight to ten minutes or until the dough feels smooth elastic and slightly tacky. Good kneading makes your bread extra fluffy.
- First Rise:
- Move the dough to a greased bowl turning it once to coat the surface. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about one hour until doubled in size. This is when the flavor develops and the texture gets pillowy.
- Shape the Dough:
- Punch down your risen dough gently to release excess air. Shape it into rolls a loaf or twisted buns as you like. Be creative with this step.
- Second Rise:
- Place your shaped dough into a greased pan or baking sheet. Cover again and let it rise for thirty to forty minutes until puffy and nearly doubled. This second rise gives the bread its light springy texture.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Bake the bread for twenty to twenty five minutes or until the top is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Brush for Shine:
- As soon as the bread comes out of the oven brush it with a mixture of condensed milk and melted butter if you want a glossy sweet finish. Let it cool slightly before you dig in.
Pin it Whenever I bake this bread I always marvel at how simple ingredients come together to make something so luxurious. My favorite part is brushing on the sweet butter topping while the loaf is still warm and sneaking a piece before anyone else notices.
Storage Tips
Store the bread in an airtight container or wrap it well at room temperature and it will stay fresh and soft for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer slice and freeze the bread then just pop individual pieces in the toaster when you want a treat. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the crumb.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of sweetened condensed milk try using evaporated milk and sugar but keep in mind it will not taste quite the same. For a dairy free version use a rich plant based milk and vegan butter but the flavor and texture will be lighter. Bread flour works too and gives a chewier crumb if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
This bread is amazing with a swipe of jam or a drizzle of honey for breakfast. It also makes fantastic French toast or sweet bread pudding the next day. For a weekend brunch set out small rolls with a mix of toppings like nut butter whipped cream and fruit.
Cultural and Seasonal Notes
Condensed milk bread is beloved in many Asian kitchens where it is often enjoyed with afternoon tea or as a holiday morning tradition. The recipe adapts well with the seasons try sprinkling cinnamon sugar in autumn or folding in dried fruit for a festive winter loaf. In warmer months a citrus glaze brightens the flavor beautifully.
Pin it Make this sweet condensed milk bread for your next weekend breakfast and enjoy the irresistible aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture. It is sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What does condensed milk add to the bread?
Condensed milk brings sweetness and moisture, resulting in a tender, soft crumb and enhanced flavor.
- → Can I knead the dough by hand?
Yes, kneading by hand is effective. Expect to knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- → Is a second rise necessary?
The second rise is crucial for a light, fluffy loaf with a well-developed structure and springy texture.
- → Can I shape the dough differently?
Absolutely! Shape into rolls, a loaf, or twisted buns according to your preference.
- → Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
Unsalted butter is recommended to better control salt levels, but you can use salted in a pinch.