If you’re looking to explore a fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and rich textures, look no further than Matcha Melon Pan. This Japanese treat, with its soft, fluffy bread dough and crisp, sweet cookie topping, is an absolute delight for your taste buds. When you add matcha, it takes the flavor to a whole new level, offering the unique umami and earthy notes of green tea that beautifully balance the sweetness of the bread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is sure to impress.
The Matcha Melon Pan is a popular Japanese pastry that combines the sweetness of a cookie crust with the fluffiness of soft bread inside. Often, the pattern on top resembles a melon, hence the name, though it doesn’t contain any melon. The addition of matcha to both the bread and cookie topping creates a rich, green hue and gives a delicate, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the bread perfectly.
Let’s get into the details of how to make your own Matcha Melon Pan from scratch!
What is Matcha Melon Pan?
Matcha Melon Pan is a sweet, fluffy bread originating from Japan. It consists of two key elements: a soft, slightly sweet bread dough and a crunchy cookie topping. The traditional version of this pastry is called “Melon Pan” and gets its name from the melon-like appearance of the crisscross pattern scored on top of the cookie crust. When matcha powder is added to both the bread and the topping, it transforms the pastry into a vibrant green delight with a subtle, slightly bitter flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet bread and cookie.
Perfect as a snack, dessert, or even a breakfast treat, Matcha Melon Pan brings the perfect balance of textures and flavors – soft, fluffy bread on the inside, and a crisp, slightly sugary crust on the outside. Every bite of this bread brings a delightful mix of sweetness and earthy richness from the matcha.
Why You Should Try Making Matcha Melon Pan
There are plenty of reasons why Matcha Melon Pan should be on your must-bake list, but here are the top few:
Unique Flavor Profile
The combination of matcha’s earthy notes and the sweetness of the bread is truly irresistible. The matcha balances out the sugary cookie topping, giving the bread a distinctive flavor that’s both comforting and exciting at the same time.
Perfect Texture
One of the things that set Matcha Melon Pan apart is its texture. The bread is soft and fluffy, while the cookie topping provides a satisfying crunch. The contrast in textures adds another layer of enjoyment with every bite.
Easy-to-Make Recipe
Despite its impressive look and taste, Matcha Melon Pan is relatively easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to bake a batch of these delicious buns in just a few hours.
Versatile
This recipe is perfect for breakfast, as a mid-afternoon snack, or even as a dessert. Whether you’re pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea, Matcha Melon Pan will elevate your snack time.
Now that you know why this pastry is a must-try, let’s dive into the details of how to make Matcha Melon Pan!
Ingredients for Matcha Melon Pan
The key to a great Matcha Melon Pan lies in the quality of the ingredients used. Here’s what you will need for this recipe:
For the Bread Dough:
- 2 cups bread flour: Bread flour is essential for creating a chewy and light texture in the bread dough. Its high gluten content helps the dough rise beautifully and gives it structure.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: This will provide a slight sweetness to the bread dough.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt helps balance the sweetness in the dough and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast: Yeast is what helps the dough rise and gives it a soft, fluffy texture.
- 2/3 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C): The milk helps hydrate the flour and activate the yeast.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Butter adds richness and flavor to the bread dough.
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder: The star ingredient that gives the bread its distinct flavor and vibrant green color.
For the Cookie Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: This will form the base for the cookie topping.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Butter adds richness and ensures the topping is crisp.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and to help create a crunchy, golden topping.
- 1 egg yolk: The egg yolk helps bind the dough together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder: Adds flavor and color to the cookie topping.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Milk helps bring the cookie dough together to the right consistency.
For the Sugar Coating:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: This sugar will coat the buns before baking, giving them an extra crunch and a beautiful golden finish.
Directions for Making Matcha Melon Pan
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Dough
The first step in making Matcha Melon Pan is to prepare the bread dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Make sure to mix these dry ingredients together so they are evenly distributed. Gradually add the warm milk to the dry ingredients while mixing, until a rough dough starts to form.
Once the dough has come together, turn it out onto a clean surface and begin kneading. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process develops the gluten and helps the dough rise better. If the dough feels too sticky, feel free to dust it lightly with a little more flour.
After kneading, add the softened butter and knead again until the butter is fully incorporated into the dough. This step will add richness and make the bread extra soft. Once the dough is smooth and elastic, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Topping
While the dough is rising, it’s time to prepare the cookie topping. In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. You can use a hand mixer or a whisk for this step. Add the egg yolk and mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
Next, sift in the all-purpose flour and matcha powder. This step helps prevent any lumps from forming in the dough and ensures that the matcha powder is evenly distributed. Mix the ingredients until a soft dough forms. If the dough seems a bit dry, add a tablespoon or two of milk to bring it together.
Once your cookie dough is ready, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out and ensures the cookie topping stays crisp when baked.
Step 3: Shape the Melon Pan
Once the bread dough has risen and the cookie topping has chilled, it’s time to shape your Matcha Melon Pan. Start by dividing the bread dough into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball, being careful not to deflate the dough too much.
Next, roll out the chilled cookie dough on a lightly floured surface. Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into 6 circles that are large enough to cover the bread dough balls. Gently place each cookie dough circle over a bread dough ball, then lightly press it down to cover the dough completely.
Step 4: Create the Signature Melon Pattern
To give your Matcha Melon Pan its characteristic melon pattern, use a knife to lightly score a crisscross pattern on top of each bun. Be careful not to press too hard, as the goal is just to create a visual effect, not to cut through the dough completely.
Step 5: Final Proofing
Once the melon pan buns are shaped, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with a kitchen towel and allow them to rise for an additional 30 minutes. This final proofing ensures that the buns will be light and fluffy when baked.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the melon pan for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cookie topping is slightly golden and crisp. The bread inside should be soft and airy, creating the perfect contrast to the crunchy cookie layer on top.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
After baking, allow the Matcha Melon Pan to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will give the bread time to set and make it easier to handle. The result is a delicious combination of a soft, fluffy interior and a crisp, matcha-flavored topping.
Serve your freshly baked Matcha Melon Pan warm, and enjoy the balance of sweet and earthy flavors with every bite!
Tips and Variations for Making Matcha Melon Pan
Substitutions
While this recipe uses bread flour, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour if necessary, though the bread may not be as chewy. Additionally, if you prefer a different flavor profile, you can experiment with other tea powders, such as hojicha or genmaicha, instead of matcha.
Make It Vegan
To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the egg yolk with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based butter and milk. The result will still be delicious and vegan-friendly.
Adjusting Sweetness
If you prefer a less sweet topping, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cookie dough. The sweetness of the topping is meant to complement the soft bread inside, so feel free to adjust it to your personal taste.
Final Thoughts
Making Matcha Melon Pan at home might take some time and effort, but it’s a rewarding experience that results in a delicious pastry that will impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy it as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, this unique treat combines the softness of freshly baked bread with the sweetness of a matcha-infused cookie topping. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share your creation on social media! And for more delicious ideas, check out these other recipes you’re sure to enjoy:
- Pillsbury Biscuit Garlic Butter Cheese Bombs
- McGriddle Breakfast Sandwiches
- Keto Sausage Cheddar Biscuits
Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
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How to Make the Best Matcha Melon Pan at Home
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet, soft delight of Matcha Melon Pan! This Japanese-inspired treat features a fluffy, slightly sweet bread dough topped with a crispy matcha-infused cookie layer. A perfect balance of texture and flavor, it’s the ideal snack or breakfast for matcha lovers!
Ingredients
For the Bread Dough:
- 2 cups bread flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 2/3 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
For the Cookie Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon matcha powder
- 2 tablespoons milk
For the Sugar Coating:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bread Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the bread flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Gradually add warm milk and mix until a rough dough forms. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. Add softened butter and knead until fully incorporated. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. -
Make the Cookie Topping:
In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar. Add the egg yolk and mix well. Sift in the flour and matcha powder, then mix until a soft dough forms. Add milk if needed to bring the dough together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. -
Shape the Melon Pan:
Once the bread dough has risen, divide it into 6 equal portions and shape them into balls. Roll out the cookie dough and cut into 6 circles large enough to cover the bread dough balls. Gently place the cookie dough over each bread dough ball and lightly press to cover. -
Create the Signature Melon Pattern:
Use a knife to lightly score a crisscross pattern on top of each bun. Roll each bun in granulated sugar for extra crunch. -
Final Proofing:
Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes. -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookie topping is slightly golden. -
Cool & Serve:
Let the Matcha Melon Pan cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the crisp cookie layer with soft, fluffy bread inside!
Notes
- Make sure to allow both the bread dough and cookie topping dough to rise and chill properly for the best texture.
- If you prefer a stronger matcha flavor, you can add more matcha powder to the bread dough or the topping.
- For a crunchier texture, roll the buns in a bit more sugar.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bun
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Matcha Melon Pan, Japanese Bread, Matcha Cookies, Matcha Recipe, Soft Bread, Melon Pan, Matcha Dessert