Bread > Sweet Breads > Japanese Baked Goods

Sesame Melonpan Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract and mix until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for a few minutes.
5. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece of dough into a ball and flatten with your hands.
7. Place the flattened dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Brush the top of each piece of dough with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: 12 pieces

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 160
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 3g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: Can be substituted with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Milk: Can be substituted with almond milk or oat milk.

Variations:
- Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough for a hint of spice.
- Add ½ cup of chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough for added texture.
- Substitute the sesame seeds with poppy seeds or flax seeds.

Tips and Tricks:
- For a softer texture, use cold butter instead of melted butter.
- For a crunchier texture, brush the top of the dough with an egg wash before sprinkling with sesame seeds.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve on a platter with fresh fruit and a dollop of whipped cream.
- Stack the melonpan in a pyramid and top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Garnishes:
- Fresh fruit
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar

Pairings:
- Ice cream
- Fruit salad
- Tea or coffee

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Salad
- Soup
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk.

Food Safety Advice:
- Keep the melonpan refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Discard any leftovers after 3 days.

Food History:
Melonpan is a type of Japanese sweet bread that is made with a cookie-like crust and a soft, fluffy interior. It is believed to have originated in the late 19th century and has since become a popular snack in Japan.

Flavor Profiles:
The melonpan has a sweet, nutty flavor from the sesame seeds and a light, buttery flavor from the dough.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a snack or dessert.
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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Region: Japanese

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Buttery, Sesame, Sesame-Y