Today, we’re making an incredibly easy sweet bread. This bakery-style treat is fluffy, soft, delicious, and—best of all—requires no kneading. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Easy Sweet Bread:
Dough:
- 1/2 can of sweetened condensed milk (at room temperature);
- 1 cup (approx. 240ml) warm water;
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast (approx. 10g);
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (approx. 450g).
Filling:
- Guava paste (goiabada), cut into small pieces, to taste.
Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons water;
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar.
How to Make Easy Sweet Bread:
- In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and warm water.
- Whisk until the condensed milk is fully dissolved in the water.
- Add the yeast and mix well.
- Add the first cup of flour and stir until incorporated.
- Add the second cup of flour and continue mixing.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, mixing gently to ensure the dough reaches the right consistency without becoming too dry.
- Once the dough becomes heavy, use your hands to finish mixing (note: it will naturally be slightly tacky).
- Cover the bowl and let the dough rise for about 30 minutes, or until visibly puffy.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface.
- Shape it gently; there is no need to knead it.
- Roll the dough into a log and divide it into 6 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece on the floured surface and add your filling to the center.
- Fold the sides in, roll it up, and pinch the seams shut to seal. Repeat with the remaining pieces.
- Place the buns into a greased baking pan.
- Cover and let them rise again for about 25 minutes.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 35 minutes.
- While the bread is hot, whisk the water and sugar for the glaze and brush it over the warm rolls.
- Your sweet bread is ready! Allow it to cool slightly, slice, and enjoy!
Tips & Variations:
For an extra touch, sprinkle shredded coconut over the sugar glaze. While guava paste (goiabada) is the traditional filling, feel free to use chocolate chips, dulce de leche, or any other filling you prefer.
Did You Know?
Sweet bread is a staple in Brazilian and Portuguese bakeries. In cities like Rio de Janeiro, you’ll often find versions filled with vanilla cream and topped with preserved fruits or fondant.
Enjoyed this recipe? Share it with your friends! Don’t forget to check out our other delicious bread recipes on the blog.