Condensed Milk Bread Recipe

No other bread captures both comfort and indulgence quite like Condensed Milk Bread. This pillowy-soft loaf gets its irresistible flavor and luscious texture from sweetened condensed milk, resulting in a cloud-like crumb that’s just the right balance of sweet and rich. Whether served warm as a breakfast treat or torn apart for an afternoon snack, Condensed Milk Bread is endlessly versatile. It brings a touch of nostalgia and just a hint of decadence to any table, making it a cherished favorite you’ll turn to again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Condensed Milk Bread is how its simple, everyday ingredients come together to make something truly special. Each item on this list plays a starring role, contributing to the bread’s softness, color, or delightful sweetness.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the bread, making it light yet sturdy enough to hold its shape.
• Active dry yeast: The essential ingredient for that beautiful rise and airy texture.
• Warm water: Activates the yeast, helping the dough become bubbly and full of life.
• Warm milk: Adds tenderness and a subtle richness that complements the bread’s mild sweetness.
• Sweetened condensed milk: The key ingredient infusing each bite with lovely caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
• Large egg: Lends richness and a little extra lift, giving the bread a luxurious crumb.
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter ensures a silky, tender texture and a hint of buttery flavor.
• Salt: Just a touch to enhance all the other flavors and keep the sweetness in check.
• Milk + condensed milk (for glaze): Produces a shiny, golden top and a subtle extra sweetness.
• Melted butter (optional): For that irresistibly glossy, melt-in-your-mouth finish right after baking.

How to Make Condensed Milk Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by stirring the warm water and active dry yeast together in a small bowl. Let them sit for about 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the surface turns frothy; this means your yeast has come alive and is ready to turn your dough into a pillow of softness.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm milk, sweetened condensed milk, and the egg. Give this mixture a good whisk—it’s the secret to an even, silky crumb later. Once the yeast has bloomed, add it in and stir until smooth.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Butter

Next, add the all-purpose flour and salt to your wet mixture. Stir with a spatula (or switch to a dough hook if you’re using a stand mixer), just until things start coming together. Now go ahead and add the softened butter. You’ll notice the dough becoming glossy and sticky—that’s exactly what you want for Condensed Milk Bread!

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough until it’s smooth, elastic, and a bit tacky to the touch. This will take about 10 minutes by hand or 6 to 8 minutes with a mixer. Don’t rush this part; kneading is what gives Condensed Milk Bread its signature cloud-like texture.

Step 5: First Rise

Shape the dough into a neat ball and place it into a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise somewhere warm for 1 to 1½ hours. Watch it double in size—a little kitchen magic right before your eyes.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Gently punch down the risen dough to release excess air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a loaf or divide into 12 equal balls for rolls. This is your chance to get creative depending on what you’re craving.

Step 7: Second Rise

Place your shaped dough into a greased loaf pan or a cake pan for rolls. Cover loosely and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until puffy and almost doubled. This final proof gives Condensed Milk Bread its wonderful lightness.

Step 8: Glaze and Bake

Just before baking, brush the top generously with your milk and condensed milk glaze. Pop it in a preheated 175°C (350°F) oven. Rolls will take 20–25 minutes, while a loaf might need up to 30 minutes. The unmistakable golden brown top signals that your Condensed Milk Bread is ready!

Step 9: Finishing Touches

Take the bread out of the oven and brush it immediately with a bit of melted butter if you want an extra glossy, tender finish. Allow it to cool just enough that you don’t burn your fingers before tearing in—pure bliss!

How to Serve Condensed Milk Bread

Garnishes

For a beautiful finish, dust your Condensed Milk Bread with powdered sugar or sprinkle on some toasted coconut flakes. A drizzle of extra condensed milk over warm slices can make every bite even more heavenly.

Side Dishes

Pair this bread with a hot mug of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast, or serve alongside fresh fruit and creamy butter for a simple yet memorable brunch. When it’s fresh, it’s truly a showstopper on its own!

Creative Ways to Present

Slice your Condensed Milk Bread and turn it into French toast, bread pudding, or sweet sandwiches filled with fruit and whipped cream. For dinner parties, present mini rolls in a basket adorned with edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Condensed Milk Bread soft by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For the best texture, avoid refrigerating as the bread can dry out faster.

Freezing

To freeze, let your Condensed Milk Bread cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Refresh leftover slices by wrapping them in foil and warming in a 150°C (300°F) oven for about 10 minutes. You can also toast slices lightly before serving for a warm, comforting snack.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can! Just skip the blooming step and mix instant yeast directly with the flour. The rest of the process for Condensed Milk Bread stays the same.

Can I make this bread without eggs?

Absolutely—replace the egg with ¼ cup of plain yogurt or unsweetened applesauce. The bread will remain wonderfully fluffy and still deliver that classic Condensed Milk Bread experience.

Why did my bread turn out dense?

Dense bread usually means the dough didn’t rise enough or wasn’t kneaded long enough. Make sure you give your yeast time to work and knead until the dough is elastic for the softest Condensed Milk Bread.

How can I make this bread even sweeter?

For extra sweetness, add a touch more condensed milk to the glaze or sprinkle sugar on top before baking. You can also swirl in a bit of Nutella or jam before shaping the dough!

Is it better to make a loaf or rolls with this recipe?

Both are delicious options! Rolls are great for sharing and parties, while a loaf makes for gorgeous slices that are perfect for toast or sandwiches. It depends on how you want to showcase your Condensed Milk Bread.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to brighten up your breakfast or wow your loved ones at brunch, Condensed Milk Bread is a must-try. Its plush crumb and sweet aroma capture pure comfort in every slice. There’s just something magical about homemade bread, especially when it tastes this good—so don’t wait to bake a loaf of warmth and happiness at home!