Korean Sweet Red Bean Bread

Discovering the Sweet Red Bean Bread

My Favorite is Korean Sweet Red Bean Bread and When I first heard about Sweet Red Bean Bread, I was a little hesitant. The idea of beans in a dessert felt odd to me, but curiosity got the better of me. I had always enjoyed trying out new foods, especially those from different cultures. So, when I stumbled upon a recipe for this beloved Korean treat, I decided it was time to give it a try. The promise of a crispy exterior with a sweet, creamy filling intrigued me, and I was eager to see how it would turn out.

Baking the First Batch

I gathered the ingredients, a mix of familiar staples like flour and butter, and the star of the show—sweet red bean paste. As I kneaded the dough, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement. There was something comforting about working with simple ingredients, knowing they would transform into something extraordinary. The smell of the dough rising in my warm kitchen was heavenly, and as I shaped each piece, I started to feel confident that this bread might just win me over.

The First Bite

When the bread finally came out of the oven, golden and crisp, I could hardly wait for it to cool down. I took my first bite and was immediately greeted by the gentle sweetness of the red bean paste, perfectly complemented by the soft, fluffy bread. The combination was unlike anything I had tasted before—both familiar and foreign at the same time. It was the kind of comfort food that warmed me from the inside out, and I knew this recipe would become a regular in my kitchen.

Sharing the Joy

As I shared the Sweet Red Bean Bread with my family, I noticed their reactions mirrored my own initial surprise and delight. My kids loved it as a snack, and my partner enjoyed it with a cup of tea. This bread, with its simple ingredients and unexpected flavors, brought a little piece of Korean street food into our home, and it quickly became a family favorite. Now, whenever I bake it, I’m reminded of how food has the power to connect us to different cultures and create new traditions in our own kitchens.

Chef’s Notes-Sweet Red Bean Bread

• Ensure the milk is warm (110°F/43°C) but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising properly.
• Knead the dough thoroughly for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Proper kneading helps develop gluten, giving the bread its chewy texture.
• The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s easier to handle.
• When filling the dough, make sure to pinch the edges tightly to seal the red bean paste inside. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking.
• Feel free to experiment with different fillings like chocolate spread, custard, or fruit preserves to create variations of this bread.

Sweet Red Bean Bread

Recipe by Kimmy

Course: Dessert, SnackCuisine: KoreanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

4

pieces

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

Resting Time

1

hour 

Total time

1

hour 

45

minutes

Dive into the delightful world of Sweet Red Bean Bread! This homemade version of a beloved street treat is filled with luscious red bean paste, offering a perfect balance of crispy exterior and sweet interior. Ideal for kids’ snacks or a quick meal substitute, this recipe brings the joy of freshly baked bread right to your kitchen. No need to thaw—just heat and enjoy!

Ingredients

• Dough

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 packet active dry yeast about 2 1/4 teaspoons

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 3/4 cup warm milk 110°F

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted

• 1 large egg

• Filling

• 1 cup sweet red bean paste

Directions

• Prepare the Dough – In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the yeast and sugar.
• Mix Wet Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk and melted unsalted butter until well combined. Add the large egg and continue whisking until smooth.
• Combine Ingredients – Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients while stirring continuously. Once the dough starts to come together, knead it on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Bake – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the bread for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
• Cool and Serve – Allow the bread to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Equipment

• Chef’s Knife
• Cutting Board
• stand mixer
• baking sheet
• mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 250kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Potassium: 100mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g
• Vitamin A: 200IU
• Vitamin C: 0mg
• Calcium: 50mg
• Iron: 2mg

FAQ-Sweet Red Bean Bread

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply add it directly to the dry ingredients, and there’s no need to activate it in warm liquid first. However, reduce the rising time slightly, as instant yeast works faster.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before. After the first rise, cover the dough and refrigerate it. The cold temperature will slow the rising process. Let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

How do I store leftover Sweet Red Bean Bread?

Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with bread flour for a chewier texture. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

What can I serve with Sweet Red Bean Bread?

This bread pairs well with a cup of green tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk. It can also be served with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced snack or meal.