Pandan Custard Bread

Introduction

Dive into the aromatic world of Pandan Custard Breads—a fusion of fragrant pandan essence and creamy custard encased in soft, pillowy bread. Beloved in many Southeast Asian and tropical countries, these delightful treats combine the subtle grassy aroma of pandan leaves with the rich, velvety texture of custard. Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even dessert, Pandan Custard Breads are an adventure for the senses, blending tradition with universal appeal. Join us on this culinary journey as we guide you step-by-step through the creation of these heartwarming buns.

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Stand Mixer with Dough Hook Attachment
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Rolling Pin
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper
• Oven
• Small Saucepan
• Whisk

Cooking Time

Total estimated time: 3 hours (including dough proving time)

Pandan Custard Breads Recipe

Ingredients

For the Bread Dough

• 500g (4 cups) all-purpose flour
• 7g (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
• 60g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 5g (1 tsp) salt
• 250ml (1 cup) warm milk (about 37°C or 98°F)
• 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the Pandan Custard

• 200ml (3/4 cup plus 2 tbsp) coconut milk
• 1 large egg yolk
• 60g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
• 15g (2 tbsp) cornstarch
• 1 tsp pandan extract
• 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter

Instructions

For the Bread Dough

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In your stand mixer bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. Attach the dough hook, and mix on low speed until ingredients are combined.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for about 8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Step 3: First Proof

Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm environment for about 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

For the Pandan Custard

Step 4: Make the Custard

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut milk and pandan extract, and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Thicken the Custard

In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, sugar, and cornstarch until well combined. Slowly whisk in the hot coconut milk mixture, a little at a time, to temper the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan and stir constantly until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until smooth. Allow to cool, then chill in the fridge until ready to use.

Assemble the Breads

Step 6: Shape the Bread

Punch down the risen dough to release gases. Divide it into 12 equal portions and flatten each piece into a circle. Place a spoonful of the pandan custard in the center of each circle and wrap the dough around the custard, pinching to seal.

Step 7: Final Proof

Place the stuffed dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam side down. Cover with a cloth and let rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the breads for 18-20 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.

Conclusion

Congratulations on creating delightful Pandan Custard Breads! With their enticing aroma and creamy filling, these buns are a perfect marriage of fragrance and flavor, carrying a comforting sweetness synonymous with tropical indulgence. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or at room temperature, and consider pairing them with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Embrace this tradition and share these buns at family gatherings or serve them as an exotic element at your next brunch. Let your culinary exploration continue with the infinite possibilities that pandan and custard offer, as these enchanting flavors certainly warrant more occasions to savor.

Wyatt Travis Creator of AI MultiPrompter

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