Japan is known for its unique and delicious culinary creations, and bread is no exception. While rice is a staple in Japanese cuisine, bread has carved out its own special place, offering a delightful fusion of Western techniques and Japanese flavors.
From the soft and fluffy Shokupan to the savory Kare Pan, Japanese bread offers a variety of textures and tastes that can easily be made at home using a bread machine.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these 25+ Japanese bread machine recipes will introduce you to the world of Japanese bread-making, providing you with endless inspiration for your baking adventures.
25+ Irresistible Japanese Bread Machine Recipes for Home Bakers
Exploring Japanese bread recipes through the convenience of a bread machine opens up a world of culinary possibilities. These 25+ recipes highlight the diversity and creativity found in Japanese bread-making, from sweet treats like Melonpan to savory delights like Kare Pan.
By incorporating these recipes into your baking repertoire, you can enjoy the unique flavors and textures of Japanese bread in the comfort of your own home.
Whether you’re making bread for breakfast, a snack, or a special occasion, these recipes will ensure that you always have something delicious and exciting to share with family and friends.
Embrace the art of Japanese bread-making and let your bread machine do the work, while you enjoy the delicious results.
Hokkaido Milk Bread
Hokkaido Milk Bread, also known as Shokupan, is a soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread that is a staple in Japanese households. Its unique texture and taste come from the use of tangzhong, a cooked mixture of flour and water, which helps to retain moisture in the bread. This recipe is perfect for making sandwiches or enjoying plain with a bit of butter.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup tangzhong (made from 1/4 cup water and 2 tbsp bread flour)
Tangzhong:
- In a small saucepan, mix 1/4 cup water and 2 tbsp bread flour.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a paste.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Instructions:
- Add the tangzhong, milk, cream, and egg to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the basic bread cycle, medium crust, and start the machine.
- Once the cycle is complete, remove the bread from the machine and let it cool on a wire rack.
Hokkaido Milk Bread is a delightful bread that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Its pillowy softness and slight sweetness make it versatile for various uses. Enjoy it fresh out of the machine, or toast it for a perfect breakfast treat.
Anpan (Japanese Sweet Red Bean Buns)
Anpan is a traditional Japanese sweet bread filled with red bean paste (anko). These buns are soft and slightly sweet, with a delicious filling that adds a wonderful texture and flavor. Anpan is a beloved snack in Japan, often enjoyed with tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups bread flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sweet red bean paste (anko)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Add the milk, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece and place a tablespoon of red bean paste in the center.
- Fold the dough around the paste and seal the edges.
- Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the buns with beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Anpan offers a delightful combination of soft bread and sweet, creamy red bean paste. These buns are perfect for a light snack or dessert and pair wonderfully with a cup of green tea. The bread machine makes the dough preparation simple, so you can enjoy these traditional Japanese treats with ease.
Japanese Curry Bread (Kare Pan)
Kare Pan is a savory Japanese bread filled with flavorful curry. The bread is coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and soft, curry-filled interior. This popular Japanese snack is perfect for curry lovers and is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 cup Japanese curry filling (prepared and cooled)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Add the water, milk, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece and place a tablespoon of curry filling in the center.
- Fold the dough around the filling and seal the edges.
- Dip each filled dough ball in beaten egg and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the buns until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Japanese Curry Bread is a delicious and satisfying snack that brings together the best of bread and curry. The crispy panko coating adds an irresistible crunch, while the savory curry filling provides a burst of flavor. Perfect for a snack or a meal, Kare Pan is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Melon Pan
Melon Pan is a beloved Japanese sweet bread known for its crispy cookie-like crust and soft, fluffy interior. Despite its name, it doesn’t typically contain melon flavor but gets its name from its melon-like appearance. This delightful bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups bread flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for cookie dough)
- 1/4 cup sugar (for cookie dough)
- 1/4 cup butter, softened (for cookie dough)
- 1/4 tsp baking powder (for cookie dough)
- 1 egg (for cookie dough)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for cookie dough)
- Granulated sugar for coating
Instructions:
- Add the milk, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- While the dough is mixing, prepare the cookie dough by creaming together the butter and sugar.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the cookie dough mixture.
- Combine the flour and baking powder, then add to the wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
- Divide the cookie dough into 8 pieces and flatten each piece into a circle.
- Wrap the cookie dough around each bread dough ball, covering it completely.
- Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Let the dough rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the buns for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Melon Pan offers a delightful combination of textures, with its crispy, sweet crust and soft, fluffy interior. These buns are a treat that both kids and adults will love. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect snack or dessert.
Matcha Anko Bread
Matcha Anko Bread combines the earthy flavor of matcha green tea with the sweet, creamy texture of red bean paste. This bread is not only visually appealing with its green hue but also offers a unique taste experience. It’s a perfect treat for those who enjoy the distinct flavors of Japanese cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp matcha powder
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 cup sweet red bean paste (anko)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Add the milk, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, salt, and matcha powder.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece and place a tablespoon of red bean paste in the center.
- Fold the dough around the paste and seal the edges.
- Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the buns with beaten egg and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Matcha Anko Bread is a delightful fusion of traditional Japanese flavors. The combination of matcha and sweet red bean paste creates a unique and enjoyable taste experience. These buns are perfect for a snack, dessert, or even breakfast, paired with a cup of green tea.
Yudane Bread
Yudane Bread is another type of Japanese milk bread, similar to Hokkaido Milk Bread, but made with a slightly different technique. Yudane involves pouring boiling water over the flour and letting it sit, creating a soft, moist texture. This bread is ideal for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying on its own.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup yudane (made from 1/4 cup boiling water and 2 tbsp bread flour)
Yudane:
- In a bowl, mix 1/4 cup bread flour and 1/4 cup boiling water.
- Stir until it forms a dough-like consistency.
- Cover and let it sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator.
Instructions:
- Add the yudane, milk, cream, and egg to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the basic bread cycle, medium crust, and start the machine.
- Once the cycle is complete, remove the bread from the machine and let it cool on a wire rack.
Yudane Bread is a wonderfully soft and moist bread that you’ll find irresistible. The yudane technique ensures the bread retains its moisture, making it perfect for a variety of uses. Whether for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoying with butter, Yudane Bread is sure to become a household favorite.
Japanese Milk Bread Rolls
Japanese Milk Bread Rolls are mini versions of the famous Hokkaido Milk Bread, known for their pillowy softness and slightly sweet flavor. These rolls are perfect for dinner parties, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with butter and jam. The unique tangzhong method used in this recipe ensures they stay soft and fresh for days.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup tangzhong (made from 1/4 cup water and 2 tbsp bread flour)
Tangzhong:
- In a small saucepan, mix 1/4 cup water and 2 tbsp bread flour.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a paste.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Instructions:
- Add the tangzhong, milk, cream, and egg to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, divide the dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a ball and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover and let rise for 30-40 minutes, until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
These Japanese Milk Bread Rolls are irresistibly soft and perfect for any occasion. Their light, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness make them a versatile addition to any meal. Serve them warm with a pat of butter, or use them to make the most delightful mini sandwiches.
Japanese Sesame Bread
Japanese Sesame Bread, or Goma Pan, is a delightful bread infused with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds. This bread is soft and fluffy on the inside with a beautiful crust covered in sesame seeds. It’s perfect for making sandwiches or enjoying on its own as a tasty snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- 1/4 cup black sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup white sesame seeds
Instructions:
- Add the water, milk, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough and knead in the black sesame seeds.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
- Sprinkle the top with white sesame seeds and let rise for 30-40 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Japanese Sesame Bread is a delicious and visually appealing bread that combines the nutty flavors of black and white sesame seeds. It’s perfect for making unique sandwiches or enjoying with a simple spread of butter. This bread will add a touch of elegance and flavor to your baking repertoire.
Kinako Bread
Kinako Bread is a unique Japanese bread flavored with kinako, a roasted soybean flour that adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. This bread is soft, slightly sweet, and has a delightful aroma. It’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a snack with a bit of butter or jam.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1/4 cup kinako (roasted soybean flour)
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
Instructions:
- Add the water, milk, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, kinako, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the basic bread cycle, medium crust, and start the machine.
- Once the cycle is complete, remove the bread from the machine and let it cool on a wire rack.
Kinako Bread offers a unique and delightful flavor that is both nutty and slightly sweet. The roasted soybean flour adds a special touch that sets this bread apart from others. Enjoy a slice of Kinako Bread with your favorite spread or simply on its own for a delicious treat.
Shokupan (Japanese Pullman Loaf)
Shokupan, or Japanese Pullman Loaf, is a classic Japanese bread known for its square shape and incredibly soft, fluffy texture. It’s a staple in Japanese households and is perfect for sandwiches, toast, or even making French toast. The light, slightly sweet taste makes it versatile and a favorite for all ages.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups bread flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 egg
- 4 tbsp butter, softened
Instructions:
- Add the milk, water, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, remove the dough and shape it into a rectangle.
- Place the dough in a greased Pullman loaf pan and cover with the lid.
- Let it rise until it reaches about 80% of the height of the pan.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Shokupan is the epitome of Japanese bread, with its perfectly square shape and soft, fluffy texture. This versatile bread can be used in countless ways, from making sandwiches to toasting for breakfast. Once you try Shokupan, it will become a regular in your baking repertoire.
Japanese Curry Bread (Kare Pan)
Japanese Curry Bread, or Kare Pan, is a savory treat filled with delicious Japanese curry and coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust. This popular snack is often found in bakeries and convenience stores across Japan. The combination of the soft bread and flavorful curry filling makes it a delightful snack or meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups bread flour
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 cup prepared Japanese curry (cooled)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- Add the milk, water, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece and place a tablespoon of cooled curry in the center.
- Fold the dough around the curry, sealing the edges tightly.
- Roll each filled dough ball in panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the bread in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Japanese Curry Bread is a delicious and unique snack that combines the flavors of soft bread and savory curry filling. The crispy panko coating adds a satisfying crunch, making this bread a favorite among all ages. Perfect for a quick snack or a light meal, Kare Pan is a must-try for any bread lover.
Anpan (Red Bean Bread)
Anpan is a traditional Japanese sweet bread filled with anko, a sweet red bean paste. This delightful bread is a staple in Japanese bakeries and is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. The soft, fluffy bread combined with the sweet, smooth anko filling makes Anpan a beloved treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 cup sweet red bean paste (anko)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Black sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
- Add the milk, water, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece and place a tablespoon of anko in the center.
- Fold the dough around the anko, sealing the edges tightly.
- Place the filled dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Let the dough rise for 30-40 minutes, until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the tops of the dough balls with beaten egg and sprinkle with black sesame seeds.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Anpan is a delightful Japanese sweet bread that perfectly balances the soft, fluffy bread with the sweet red bean paste filling. This traditional treat is perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The simple yet satisfying flavors of Anpan make it a must-try for anyone who loves Japanese sweets.
Melonpan (Japanese Melon Bread)
Melonpan, or Japanese Melon Bread, is a delightful and unique treat that combines a soft, fluffy bread with a crunchy, cookie-like crust. Despite its name, it doesn’t always contain melon flavor but gets its name from its appearance, which resembles a melon. This sweet bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.
Ingredients: Bread Dough:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
Cookie Dough:
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- For the Bread Dough:
- Add the milk, water, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- For the Cookie Dough:
- Cream the sugar and butter together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix well.
- Add the flour and baking powder, and mix until combined.
- Divide the cookie dough into 8 equal portions and shape each into a flat disc. Refrigerate until needed.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, divide the bread dough into 8 equal pieces.
- Shape each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly.
- Place a cookie dough disc over each bread dough ball, covering the top.
- Use a knife to score a crosshatch pattern on the cookie dough, resembling a melon.
- Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let rise for 30-40 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Melonpan is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, offering a unique contrast between its soft bread base and crispy, sweet cookie crust. This visually appealing and delicious treat is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Enjoy Melonpan with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack for a touch of Japanese bakery magic.
Matcha Anko Bread
Matcha Anko Bread is a beautiful and flavorful Japanese bread that combines the earthy bitterness of matcha (green tea powder) with the sweet, smooth taste of anko (red bean paste). This visually stunning bread is perfect for tea time or as a special treat for matcha lovers.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- 2 tbsp matcha powder
- 1 cup sweet red bean paste (anko)
Instructions:
- Add the milk, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, salt, and matcha powder.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece and place a tablespoon of anko in the center.
- Fold the dough around the anko, sealing the edges tightly.
- Place the filled dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Let the dough rise for 30-40 minutes, until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Matcha Anko Bread is a visually stunning and delicious treat that combines the distinct flavors of matcha and anko. The earthy bitterness of the matcha complements the sweetness of the red bean paste, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. This bread is perfect for tea time or as a delightful dessert.
Japanese Cheese Bread
Japanese Cheese Bread is a savory delight that combines the softness of Japanese milk bread with a cheesy filling. This bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or as an accompaniment to soups and salads. The gooey cheese filling inside the soft bread makes it a favorite among cheese lovers.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups bread flour
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Add the milk, water, egg, and softened butter to the bread machine pan.
- Add the bread flour, sugar, and salt.
- Make a small well in the flour and add the yeast.
- Select the dough cycle and start the machine.
- Once the dough cycle is complete, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece and place a small handful of shredded cheese in the center.
- Fold the dough around the cheese, sealing the edges tightly.
- Place the filled dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Let the dough rise for 30-40 minutes, until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the tops of the dough balls with beaten egg.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack.
Japanese Cheese Bread is a savory and satisfying treat that combines the softness of milk bread with the richness of melted cheese. This bread is perfect for any time of day and is sure to be a hit with cheese lovers. Enjoy it warm from the oven for the best gooey cheese experience.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!