Authentic Japanese Melon Pan Recipe

Ingredients

For the Bread:
220 grams Bread Flour
30 grams Cake Flour
30 grams Granulated Sugar
3 grams Salt
3 grams Instant Dry Yeast
140 grams Warm Milk
25 grams Unsalted Butter
For the Cookie Dough:
25 grams Unsalted Butter
50 grams Granulated Sugar
25 grams Beaten Egg
100 grams Cake Flour
2 grams Baking Powder
Granulated Sugar for coating

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, mix together the bread flour, cake flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant dry yeast.
Gradually add the warm milk to the dry ingredients while stirring continuously.
Add the unsalted butter and knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This should take around 10-15 minutes.
Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rest until it doubles in size. This should take around 1 hour.
While the dough is resting, start making the cookie dough. In another bowl, cream the butter and the granulated sugar together until it becomes light and fluffy.
Add the beaten egg to the butter mixture and mix well.
Sift the cake flour and baking powder into the butter mixture. Stir until the mixture becomes a soft dough.
Divide the cookie dough into 8 equal parts. Shape each part into a ball and then flatten it into a disk. Cover the cookie dough disks with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator.
After the bread dough has doubled in size, divide it into 8 equal parts. Shape each part into a ball and cover them with a damp cloth. Let them rest for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, place a cookie dough disk on top of each bread dough ball. Using a knife, score the cookie dough in a crisscross pattern.
Roll each bread in granulated sugar, making sure that the entire surface is coated.
Place the bread on a baking sheet and let them rise for another 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F). Bake the bread for about 12-15 minutes or until the tops are golden brown.
Remove the bread from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Tools for making

Large bowl - For mixing the bread dough
Clean cloth - To cover the dough while it rests
Another bowl - For making the cookie dough
Plastic wrap - To cover and chill the cookie dough disks
Knife - To score the cookie dough on top of the bread
Baking sheet - To place the bread for baking
Wire rack - To cool the bread after baking

Recipe variations

Adding chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a chocolate chip melon pan
Using matcha (green tea) powder in the cookie dough for a matcha melon pan
Replacing the bread flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option
Adding custard or cream filling to the bread before baking
Using different fruit flavors in the filling, such as strawberry or blueberry
Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a spiced melon pan
Using almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free alternative
Adding a layer of sweetened red bean paste between the bread and cookie dough
Using different shapes for the bread, such as hearts or animals
Experimenting with different extracts or flavorings, such as lemon or almond

Recipe overview

Melon Pan is a type of sweet bread from Japan that's known for its unique appearance, similar to a cantaloupe melon, hence its name. Despite its name, Melon Pan rarely has any melon flavor, but rather derives its moniker from the melon-like appearance of its top crust. It is a delightful dessert or snack with a soft, fluffy bread interior and a crispy, sweet cookie crust exterior. Making Melon Pan involves two main steps: preparing the bread dough and the cookie dough. The bread dough is a simple yeast dough that needs time to rise, while the cookie dough is a sweet, shortbread-like dough that is chilled before use. These two components are then combined to create the distinctive look of Melon Pan. Baking these sweet buns might seem a little laborious, but the end result is absolutely worth it. The crunchy cookie crust pairs perfectly with the soft bread, making Melon Pan a truly unique treat. Enjoy it with tea or coffee for a special breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack.

Common questions

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for bread flour in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture of the bread may differ slightly.
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant dry yeast?
Yes, you can use active dry yeast instead of instant dry yeast. However, you need to activate it in warm water before adding it to the dry ingredients.
Can I use margarine instead of unsalted butter?
It is recommended to use unsalted butter for better flavor and texture. Margarine can be used as a substitute, but it may affect the overall taste.
How long should I knead the bread dough?
Knead the bread dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Do I need to chill the cookie dough before using it?
Yes, it is important to chill the cookie dough for easier handling and to prevent it from spreading too much during baking.
How can I store the Melon Pan?
Store the Melon Pan in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix and knead the bread dough.
Measuring Cups and Spoons - For accurately measuring the ingredients.
Baking Sheet - To place the bread rolls for baking.
Plastic Wrap - To cover the cookie dough disks while chilling.
Knife - To score the cookie dough on top of the bread rolls.
Clean Cloth - To cover the bread dough while resting.
Wire Rack - To cool the baked Melon Pan.

Origin stories

Melon Pan, despite its name, doesn't traditionally contain any melon. This sweet bread is a Japanese classic, tracing its origins back to the early 20th century. The name 'Melon Pan' was derived from its appearance, as the bread's sugary top crust is scored in a crisscross pattern that resembles the rind of a melon. Over time, it has evolved with various flavors and fillings, but the original Melon Pan prides itself on its simple yet distinctive combination of a crisp cookie crust crowning a soft, sweet bread. The joy of Melon Pan lies in this juxtaposition,and it is a beloved treat throughout Japan enjoyed by people of all ages.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.

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