Description
Delight in the soft, pillowy texture of Japanese milk bread sandwiches filled with a luscious, homemade crème custard. These Japanese Crème Filled Sandwiches offer a perfect balance of creamy sweetness wrapped in tender bread, making for a luxurious snack or dessert that’s simple to prepare and elegantly light.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 6 slices Japanese milk bread (shokupan) or soft white bread, crusts removed
Crème Filling
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
For Garnish
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard Base: In a small saucepan, whisk together the egg yolk, sugar, cornstarch, and whole milk until you achieve a smooth, lump-free mixture. This step ensures your custard will be creamy and silky.
- Cook the Custard: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent curdling or burning. Continue until the mixture thickens into a smooth custard that coats the back of a spoon, usually within 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Flavor and Cool: Remove the custard from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant and sweet aroma. Allow the custard to cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge to steady the filling before combining with the cream.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, creating a light and fluffy texture that will lighten the custard.
- Combine Cream and Custard: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cooled custard mixture, taking care not to deflate the cream, to create a smooth, airy filling.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a generous dollop of the crème filling on one slice of bread, then place another slice on top. Press the edges gently to seal or use a sandwich cutter to trim and seal the sandwiches neatly.
- Chill for Firmness (Optional): Refrigerate the assembled sandwiches for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the filling to set, which makes them easier to handle and enhances firmness.
- Serve: Dust the sandwiches with powdered sugar right before serving for an elegant finishing touch and a hint of extra sweetness.
Notes
- Use Japanese milk bread or any soft white bread for best texture and authenticity.
- Ensure constant stirring when cooking custard to avoid lumps or burning.
- Folding whipped cream gently is key to preserving the light, airy texture of the filling.
- Chilling the sandwiches helps set the filling but can be skipped if you prefer a softer texture.
- Powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and visual appeal but is optional.
