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There’s something utterly delightful about the crunch of a perfectly fried bun – that golden exterior giving way to a soft, airy center. When I first encountered Fried Mantou with Condensed Milk in a cozy eatery during a trip, it felt like a little culinary revelation. Imagine pulling apart a freshly fried bun, the sweet aroma wafting up as you drizzle rich condensed milk over the top. That blend of textures and flavors creates a moment worth sharing.

As the leaves turn and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s no better time to recreate this little piece of joy in my own kitchen. Not only is this recipe brimming with comfort, but it also offers a fun and interactive cooking experience you can enjoy with family or friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to swapout takeout for something homemade, these pillows of warmth will quickly have you swooning. Join me as we dive into the delightful world of Fried Mantou, where every bite is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.

Why will you love Fried Mantou with Condensed Milk?

Irresistible flavor: The combination of crispy, golden-fried outer layers and fluffy, soft insides creates a truly addictive treat.
Easily customizable: You can play around with different toppings or fillings, making it a versatile option for any meal or snack!
Quick satisfaction: This recipe allows you to whip up these buns in just about an hour—perfect for when cravings hit unexpectedly.
Family-Friendly Fun: Gather the family for a fun cooking session, creating delicious memories while mastering the art of bun-making together.
Perfect party pleaser: Serve them at gatherings and watch as guests rave about the delightful pairing with sweetened condensed milk!

Fried Mantou with Condensed Milk Ingredients

For the Dough

Dumpling flour – This is the backbone of our Fried Mantou, providing that perfect chewy texture!
Sugar – Just a tablespoon to balance the flavors and help the yeast work its magic.
Active dry yeast – Essential for creating that airy interior; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Warm water – This activates the yeast; ensure it’s warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Vegetable oil – Adds moisture to the dough, contributing to a tender texture.
Salt – Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor of the buns.

For Frying and Drizzling

Oil, for frying – Use oil with a high smoke point for perfectly golden brown buns!
Condensed milk – The star of the show for drizzling; it adds a sweet creaminess that’s simply irresistible!

How to Make Fried Mantou with Condensed Milk

Dissolve yeast: In a bowl, combine warm water and sugar, stirring until dissolved. Add active dry yeast and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, signaling it’s ready to use.
Mix dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the frothy yeast mixture with dumpling flour, vegetable oil, and a pinch of salt, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Knead the dough: On a floured surface, knead your dough vigorously for about 10 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. Place it into a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape the buns: After rising, punch down the dough and knead briefly. Roll it into a log and cut into 12 equal portions. Shape each piece into a bun and place them on a parchment-lined tray, leaving space for them to expand while steaming.
Steam buns: Steam the shaped buns for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and fluffy. After steaming, take them out and allow them to cool completely.
Heat oil: In a deep fryer or a deep pan, heat oil to 180°C. Test if it’s ready by dropping a small piece of dough; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.
Fry the buns: Gently place a few cooled steamed buns into the hot oil. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy.
Drain excess oil: Remove the fried buns from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess. This step ensures they stay light and crispy!
Drizzle with condensed milk: Once slightly cooled, go ahead and generously drizzle each bun with sweetened condensed milk for that creamy, irresistible finish.
Serve warm: Enjoy your Fried Mantou with Condensed Milk straight away while they’re still warm—perfectly soft on the inside and crispy on the outside!

Optional: Serve with additional toppings like crushed nuts or fresh fruits for a delightful twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Fried Mantou with Condensed Milk?

There’s something truly special about creating a whole meal around these heavenly, crispy, and sweet buns that brings warmth to any gathering.

Savory Soy-Glazed Vegetables: These vibrant, slightly sticky vegetables bring a burst of umami that beautifully balances the sweetness of the fried mantou.
Spicy Dipping Sauce: A zesty sauce made with chili and vinegar complements the buns, providing a delightful flavor contrast to their sweetness.
Coconut Curry Soup: Serve a warm bowl of this aromatic soup to dip your mantou in. The rich flavors will enchant your taste buds!

Imagine a cozy evening with loved ones, sharing these warm delights while engaging in laughter and stories. It’s about building connections as delicious as the food itself.

Fresh Cucumber Salad: The crispness and acidity of this salad will cut through the richness of the fried mantou, refreshing every bite.
Mango Sticky Rice: For a sweet dessert, this combination of creamy coconut and luscious mango contrasts wonderfully with the fluffy buns.
Chrysanthemum Tea: A lightly floral beverage that pairs well, enhancing the meal without overpowering the delicate flavors.

Embrace the moment with these pairings that elevate your dining experience and make every bite unforgettable!

Expert Tips for Fried Mantou

Perfect Yeast Activation: Make sure your warm water is around 100°F (38°C)—too hot can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising.
Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; a good knead ensures your Fried Mantou will have that delightful fluffy texture.
Don’t Rush the Rise: Give the dough enough time to double in size; rushing this step can lead to dense buns that don’t rise well while frying.
Oil Temperature Matters: Ensure your frying oil is hot (about 180°C) before adding the buns. If it’s too cool, they will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
Drain Properly: After frying, let the buns rest on paper towels to soak up extra oil, keeping them light and crispy for that perfect bite.
Customize Wisely: While condensed milk is a must for drizzling, don’t hesitate to experiment with other toppings. Just keep it balanced to avoid overpowering the Fried Mantou!

Fried Mantou with Condensed Milk Variations

Feel free to get creative with this beloved recipe and make it your own!

Sweet Potato Twist: Add mashed sweet potatoes to the dough for a subtly sweet flavor and vibrant color.
Herb-Infused: Mix in finely chopped herbs like chives or cilantro into the dough for a delightful savory twist.
Spiced Sugar Coating: Toss the fried buns in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for cozy evenings.
Chocolate Drizzle: Replace the condensed milk with melted chocolate for a rich and indulgent take on this classic treat.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts, like almonds or walnuts, on top of the warm mantou before serving for added texture and flavor.
Savory Fillings: Stuff your buns with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or cooked meats before steaming for a delightful surprise.
Coconut Milk Glaze: Substitute condensed milk with coconut milk, whipping it into a creamy drizzle for a tropical twist.
Hot Chili Oil: For those who enjoy a kick, drizzle some hot chili oil over the fried buns for that perfect balance of heat and sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze Fried Mantou

Room Temperature: Store any leftover Fried Mantou in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, place the Fried Mantou in the fridge for up to a week—just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the fried buns in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your Fried Mantou again, reheat from frozen in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, adding a drizzle of condensed milk before serving for that deliciously sweet touch!

Make Ahead Options

These Fried Mantou with Condensed Milk are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough and shape the buns up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the steaming step, then cover the shaped buns with plastic wrap and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to enjoy them, steam the buns directly from the fridge and then fry as directed. This method keeps them just as delicious while allowing for easy prep. Additionally, you can fry a batch and freeze the cooled buns for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the oven for that delightful freshness before drizzling with sweetened condensed milk.

Fried Mantou with Condensed Milk Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right dumpling flour?
It’s essential to choose high-quality dumpling flour, which often has a higher protein content. This gives your Fried Mantou that perfect chewy texture. Look for packages labeled specifically for dumplings or baos at your local Asian market for the best results!

How long can I store Fried Mantou, and what’s the best method?
You can store leftover Fried Mantou in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to keep them longer, refrigeration is a suitable option, extending their freshness for up to a week. However, ensure they are sealed to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Fried Mantou? If so, how?
Absolutely! For freezing, place your cooled Fried Mantou in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour. Once they are firm, transfer them to an airtight bag, ensuring to squeeze out as much air as possible. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months!

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it may be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your warm water is between 100°F and 110°F (38°C-43°C) when dissolving the yeast, and check that your yeast is fresh. If it’s been sitting in your pantry for a while, a quick test can be done by mixing it with warm water and sugar—if it doesn’t froth within 10 minutes, it’s best to start with a new packet.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is not suitable for gluten-free diets since dumpling flour contains wheat. For those with allergies, always check the labels for hidden allergens. You can also experiment with alternative flours like rice flour or a gluten-free blend, but keep in mind that the texture may vary.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen Fried Mantou?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place frozen Fried Mantou on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Drizzle with condensed milk just before serving for that sweet touch, and enjoy your homemade delight!