Japanese Creme Filled Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the pillowy softness of Japanese milk bread with creamy, sweet fillings
• Fresh strawberries add a juicy burst of flavor and freshness
• Versatile filling options: whipped cream alone or with rich custard
• Lightly fried for a perfect crispy exterior without heaviness
• Perfect for afternoon tea, dessert, or an elegant snack

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Bread

• 5 slices Japanese milk bread
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Whipped Creme

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Custard (optional)

• ¾ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Other

• Strawberries, stem removed and cut in half
• Granulated sugar, for dusting

Directions

Prepare the Custard (Optional)

1. In a saucepan, combine milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
2. In a bowl, whisk cornstarch, sugar, and egg yolks until smooth.
3. Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously to temper the eggs.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened (about 3-5 minutes).
5. Remove from heat, stir in butter until melted and smooth. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent a skin, and chill until cold.

Make the Whipped Creme

1. In a chilled bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Lay out the Japanese milk bread slices. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream (and custard if using) on one slice.
2. Place halved strawberries over the cream. Top with another slice of bread and gently press together. Repeat to make all sandwiches.

Fry the Sandwiches

1. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat (about 1/4 inch deep).
2. Carefully fry each sandwich until golden brown on both sides, about 1-2 minutes per side.
3. Drain on paper towels and dust with granulated sugar.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-5 sandwiches
• Prep time: 30 minutes (including custard chilling)
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Use different fresh fruits like kiwi, mango, or blueberries
• Skip frying for a lighter, no-fry version
• Add a drizzle of chocolate or strawberry sauce before serving
• Substitute custard with pastry cream or mascarpone for different textures
• Make it vegan by using coconut cream and dairy-free bread

Storage/Reheating

• Best enjoyed fresh the same day for optimal texture and flavor.
• Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
• Reheating fried sandwiches is not recommended as they lose crispness.

FAQs

What is Japanese milk bread?

Japanese milk bread, or shokupan, is a soft, fluffy white bread known for its slightly sweet flavor and pillowy texture.

Can I use regular white bread instead?

You can, but the texture won’t be as soft and tender as with milk bread.

How do I keep the custard from curdling?

Temper the eggs by slowly adding warm milk while whisking continuously, and cook over medium heat without boiling.

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

Assemble without frying and store in the fridge. Fry just before serving for best results.

What if I don’t want to fry the sandwiches?

You can serve them as cold sandwiches or toast them lightly in a pan without oil.

Can I freeze these sandwiches?

Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy filling and fried exterior.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Don’t overfill the sandwiches and fry quickly in hot oil to create a crisp seal.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries work best for texture and flavor.

How do I make whipped cream stiff enough?

Use cold heavy cream and a chilled bowl, and whip until stiff peaks form.

What can I use instead of powdered sugar in the whipped cream?

You can use granulated sugar or a sugar substitute, but powdered sugar blends more smoothly.

Conclusion

Japanese Creme Filled Sandwiches are a perfect blend of soft bread, creamy fillings, and fresh fruit, lightly fried to golden perfection. This elegant treat is sure to impress whether served as a dessert or an indulgent snack. With the option to include custard or keep it simple with whipped cream, this recipe offers delightful versatility for any occasion.

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