Categories Bread Recipes, Breakfast Recipes, Easy Recipes, Snack Recipes

Spanish Bread

by Annmarie

Spanish Bread is one of those bakery classics that instantly brings back memories of warm afternoon merienda and fresh bread tucked inside brown paper bags. Soft, fluffy, and filled with a sweet buttery paste, this Filipino favorite is pure comfort in every bite.

There is something so nostalgic about homemade Spanish Bread. It has that familiar bakery style charm that feels comforting, cozy, and impossible not to love, especially if you grew up enjoying it as a warm snack back home.

What makes this bread so special is the contrast in texture. The rolls are soft and pillowy on the inside, while the outside is coated in fine breadcrumbs that give each bite a little extra texture and that classic bakery feel.

The filling is easily one of the best parts. Sweet, buttery, and slightly chunky, it creates the perfect contrast against the soft bread, making every bite rich, warm, and satisfying.

These rolls are also wonderfully hearty. They are not delicate little pastries, they are thick, generous bread rolls that feel filling and substantial, which is part of what makes them such a beloved merienda treat.

Spanish Bread is the kind of recipe that feels deeply nostalgic and comforting, whether you are recreating a childhood favorite or making it for the first time. It is a true Filipino bakery classic that brings warmth, sweetness, and a little taste of home to the table.

Spanish Bread

Spanish Bread

Spanish Bread

Spanish Bread is one of those bakery classics that instantly brings back memories of warm afternoon merienda and fresh bread tucked inside brown paper bags. Soft, fluffy, and filled with a sweet buttery paste, this Filipino favorite is pure comfort in every bite.

Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Rise times for the Dough 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Bread Dough:

  • 1 and 1/4 cups warm milk 105-115 F
  • 2 and 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 4 and 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, divided + up to 1/8 cup extra for kneading
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup canola oil
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 3/4 cup bread crumbs for coating the bread
  • 1/4 cup evaporated milk

For the Spanish Bread Filling:

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup` bread crumbs
  • 1/3 cup butter
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup evaporated milk

Instructions

Make the Bread Dough:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy.
  2. Add the eggs, sugar, oil, and salt, then stir everything together with a wooden spoon until combined.
  3. Begin adding 4 cups of flour, one cup at a time, stirring after each addition. The dough will start to come together into a shaggy, sticky mixture.
  4. Sprinkle in just enough of the remaining 1/2 cup of flour and continue stirring until the dough gathers in the center of the bowl.
  5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 6 to 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Dust your hands and work surface with flour as needed to prevent sticking. If necessary, you can use up to 1/8 cup additional flour while kneading.
  6. Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let it rise for 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size. While the dough rises, you can prepare the filling.
  7. Once risen, gently punch the dough down and divide it into 18 to 20 equal portions.
  8. Using your hands or a small rolling pin, flatten each piece into an oval about the size of your hand. Spread about 1 tablespoon of filling over the surface, then roll it up into a log.
  9. Arrange the shaped rolls on a large greased or parchment-lined baking tray. Brush each roll with evaporated milk, then coat the outside with breadcrumbs.
  10. Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap and let them rise again for 1 hour.
  11. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the Spanish bread for 15 to 20 minutes, or until lightly golden on top.

Spanish Bread Filling:

  1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until bubbly.
  2. Add the flour and breadcrumbs, then whisk vigorously for a few seconds. The mixture will look grainy at first.
  3. Immediately pour in the milk and continue stirring until the mixture loosens slightly.

Please leave a star rating and comment to let us know how you liked this recipe!