Taro Cream Cheese Bread

May be an image of babka and text that says 'Taro Cream Cheese Bread FILLING: 2/3 cup taro 1 1 1 1 tbsp sugar 1 tbsp condensed milk 2 tbsp milk powder 2 tsp unsalted butter 1 1/ tbsp milk 1/4 cup cream cheese Dasho of purple potato powder DOUGH: 4 41/ 1/4 cups plain flour 1/4 cup sugar 1/4 cup milk powder 1 tsp salt 2 tsp instant yeast 1 14 cups milk 1 large egg 3 tbsp butter'

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Chill in the fridge to firm it up slightly—this makes it easier to shape and fill later.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add the egg and mix well.
Gradually mix in the bread flour and salt. Knead by hand or mixer until a rough dough forms.
Add softened butter and continue kneading for 10–12 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Assemble the Bread

Punch down the dough and divide it into 8–10 equal pieces.
Flatten each piece into a circle about 4 inches wide.
Place 1 tablespoon of taro filling in the center, and a small spoonful of cream cheese mixture on top.
Pinch the dough closed to seal and form a bun.
Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking tray.

Step 5: Final Rise and Bake

Cover the buns and let them rise for another 30–40 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush the tops with egg wash (1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp milk) for a shiny finish.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown.

🧈 Optional Toppings & Variations:

Drizzle with sweetened condensed milk or coconut glaze.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds or shredded coconut before baking.
Swirl extra taro paste into the dough for a marbled look.

🥯 Storage Tips:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 10 seconds to restore softness.
Freeze wrapped buns for up to 2 months and thaw overnight.

🍠 Final Thoughts:

Taro Cream Cheese Bread is a beautiful marriage of traditional Asian flavors and Western baking. The taro’s nutty, mellow flavor pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese, creating a soft, pillowy bread that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious beginner, this recipe is sure to bring something new and delightful to your kitchen.