MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES are a delightful fusion of soft bread and vibrant matcha flavor, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. These turtle-shaped treats not only look adorable but also offer a unique taste experience that combines the earthiness of matcha with the sweetness of white chocolate. Ideal for various occasions, from casual brunches to festive gatherings, these bread turtles will impress both your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Appearance: The turtle shape makes these breads visually appealing and fun to eat.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of matcha and white chocolate caters to both sweet and savory palates.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip these up without hassle.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them at parties, as a treat for tea time, or as a delightful addition to a picnic.
- Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with fillings or toppings based on your preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
- Baking sheet: A quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of your bread turtles.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 tbsp (24g) flour
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 270g bread flour (we use King Arthur Organic)
- 100g sugar
- 12g matcha (we use Encha)
- 5g instant yeast (we use Saf Instant Gold)
- 4g fine grain salt
- 4g non-fat dry milk powder (we use Now Foods Organic)
- 70g whole milk, room temperature
- 1 tsp (4g) vanilla extract
- 1 egg, room temperature & whisked
- 28g unsalted butter, melted & cooled
For the Filling
- 90g white chocolate, finely chopped
- 12 black sesame seeds
For the Yeast Mixture
- 1 1/2 tsp (3g) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
- 1 tbsp (12g) sugar
For the Topping
- 1 1/2 tsp (12.5g) vegetable oil (we used avocado oil)
- 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
- 1/3 cup (50g) rice flour (use white or brown rice flour – not Mochiko sticky rice flour)
- 1 tbsp (7.5g) cocoa powder
- Sugar for sprinkling
How to Make MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar.
- Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together bread flour, sugar, matcha powder, instant yeast, fine grain salt, and non-fat dry milk powder.
- Add in milk, vanilla extract, egg, melted butter, and the prepared yeast mixture. Mix until combined.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
- Transfer the dough onto a floured surface.
- Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 4: First Rise
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl. Cover with a damp cloth.
- Let it rise in a warm area for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape into Turtles
- Punch down the risen dough. Divide into equal pieces.
- Roll each piece into balls. Form shapes resembling turtles with small balls for heads and legs.
Step 6: Fill with White Chocolate
- Make a small indentation in each turtle’s body.
- Insert finely chopped white chocolate into each indentation.
Step 7: Second Rise
- Place shaped turtles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Cover again and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 8: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake turtles for about 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Remove from oven. Let cool slightly before sprinkling sugar on top.
- Enjoy your delicious MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES warm or at room temperature!
How to Serve MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES
MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES are not just delightful to look at but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, here are some creative ways to serve these delicious treats.
Breakfast Treats
- With Butter and Jam: Spread a little butter and your favorite jam for a sweet morning treat.
- Toasted with Honey: Lightly toast the turtles and drizzle with honey for added sweetness.
Dessert Platter
- With Fresh Fruits: Serve alongside seasonal fruits like strawberries or oranges for a refreshing contrast.
- Ice Cream Pairing: A scoop of vanilla or matcha ice cream complements the bread’s flavors beautifully.
Snack Time
- Accompanied by Tea: Enjoy with a cup of green tea or chai. The warmth of the tea enhances the matcha flavor.
- As a Picnic Snack: Pack them in your picnic basket for an elegant outdoor snack option.
How to Perfect MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES
To ensure your MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your ingredients, especially yeast and matcha, are fresh for the best flavor and rise.
- Monitor Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. Adjust flour or water as needed during mixing.
- Allow Proper Rising Time: Patience is key; allow the dough enough time to rise fully for a fluffy texture.
- Bake at Correct Temperature: Preheat your oven properly to achieve even baking and avoid undercooked centers.
Best Side Dishes for MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES
Pairing side dishes with your MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options you might consider.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup pairs well with the sweetness of the turtles.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brings a refreshing touch to balance the richness.
- Vegetable Tempura: Crispy vegetable tempura adds a savory crunch that complements the soft bread.
- Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame offers protein and is easy to prepare as a side dish.
- Chilled Soba Noodles: These can be served with dipping sauce for a unique twist on pairing.
- Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad dressed lightly will keep things fresh alongside the richness of the bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Matcha Milk Bread Turtles can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Wrong Flour Type: Using all-purpose flour instead of bread flour can lead to a denser texture. Always use bread flour for the best rise and chewiness.
- Incorrect Yeast Activation: Not activating the yeast properly can prevent your dough from rising. Make sure to dissolve yeast in warm water (not hot) with a bit of sugar before adding it to the mixture.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using too much or too little of certain ingredients can alter the final product. Invest in a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for developing flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step; give your dough time to rise fully.
- Overbaking: Baking for too long can dry out your bread. Keep an eye on the color, and use a toothpick to check for doneness without opening the oven door too often.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooked Matcha Milk Bread Turtles in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES
- Wrap each turtle in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place turtles on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a turtle on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 20-30 seconds, checking every 10 seconds to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, turning occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some answers to common questions about making Matcha Milk Bread Turtles.
What is MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES?
MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES are soft, fluffy bread rolls flavored with matcha green tea powder, shaped into turtle designs for fun presentation.
Can I use other flavors besides matcha?
Yes! You can customize these turtles by using different flavored powders like cocoa or even fruit purees for unique tastes.
How do I know when my dough has risen enough?
The dough should roughly double in size and feel airy. A simple test is pressing two fingers into it; if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.
Can I make MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute milk with plant-based milk, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and replace butter with coconut oil or margarine.
Final Thoughts
MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES are not only beautiful but also versatile treats that bring joy with every bite. Feel free to experiment with flavors and shapes to suit your preferences. Enjoy baking!
MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES
MATCHA MILK BREAD TURTLES are a delightful and whimsical treat that combines the soft, fluffy texture of milk bread with the earthy flavor of matcha green tea. Perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, these turtle-shaped buns are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Each bite offers a unique fusion of sweet white chocolate filling and the rich taste of matcha, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a fun baking project, these adorable bread turtles are sure to impress friends and family alike.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients
- 270g bread flour
- 100g sugar
- 12g matcha powder
- 1 egg (whisked)
- 90g white chocolate (finely chopped)
- 70g whole milk (room temperature)
- 28g unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 tbsp (24g) flour
- 1/4 cup (60ml) water
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 5g instant yeast
- 4g fine grain salt
- 4g non-fat dry milk powder
- 1 tsp (4g) vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp (3g) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water
- 1 tbsp (12g) sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp (12.5g) vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp (2g) salt
- 1/3 cup (50g) rice flour
- 1 tbsp (7.5g) cocoa powder
- Sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the yeast mixture by combining warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar in a bowl; let it sit until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix bread flour, sugar, matcha powder, instant yeast, salt, and non-fat dry milk powder.
- Add milk, vanilla extract, egg, melted butter, and the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients; mix until combined.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Place in an oiled bowl and cover; let rise for about an hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape into turtles by dividing dough into equal pieces and forming turtle shapes with small balls for heads and legs.
- Fill each turtle's body with white chocolate pieces before letting them rise again for 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 turtle (50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
