Learn how to make soft and fluffy Chinese Sausage Bread at home with this detailed step-by-step recipe. Featuring savory Chinese sausage wrapped in rich, buttery bread dough, this bakery-style favorite is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or lunchboxes.
Chinese Sausage Bread: Soft, Savory, and Bakery-Style Perfection
Chinese Sausage Bread is a popular Asian bakery treat that combines pillowy soft bread with sweet and savory Chinese sausage. The slightly smoky flavor of the sausage pairs beautifully with the rich, buttery dough, creating a delicious snack that’s satisfying any time of day. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or packed for lunch, this homemade version delivers authentic bakery-quality results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and fluffy bread texture
- Sweet and savory flavor combination
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or lunch
- Better than store-bought bakery bread
- Freezer-friendly and easy to reheat
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
- Total Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 bread rolls
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 cups (375 g) bread flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling
- 8 Chinese sausages (lap cheong)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
Optional Toppings
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions
- Mayonnaise drizzle
- Black sesame seeds
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Kitchen towel
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Sausages
Place the Chinese sausages in a steamer basket over simmering water.
Steam for 10–12 minutes until slightly softened.
Remove and allow them to cool completely.
Lightly brush with sesame oil if desired for extra flavor.
Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Bread flour
- Sugar
- Salt
- Instant yeast
Mix well.
Add the egg and warm milk.
Stir until a rough dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Add the softened butter.
Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
The dough should pass the windowpane test, meaning a small piece can be stretched thin without tearing easily.
Step 4: First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball.
Place it in a lightly greased bowl.
Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
Let rise in a warm place for about 60–90 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Divide the Dough
Punch down the risen dough gently to release excess air.
Transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions.
Roll each portion into a smooth ball.
Cover and rest for 10 minutes.
Step 6: Shape the Bread
Take one dough ball and flatten it into an oval shape approximately 6 inches long.
Place one sausage in the center.
Wrap the dough around the sausage, pinching the seam firmly closed.
For a bakery-style appearance, leave part of the sausage exposed on top or fully enclose it depending on your preference.
Repeat with the remaining dough and sausages.
Step 7: Second Rise
Arrange the shaped breads on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Leave space between each roll.
Cover loosely and let rise for 30–40 minutes until noticeably puffy.
Step 8: Prepare for Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Whisk together the egg and milk for the egg wash.
Brush the tops of the dough gently.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Step 9: Bake
Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and fully cooked.
The tops should be shiny and lightly browned.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven.
Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Chinese Sausage Bread pairs well with:
- Hot milk tea
- Coffee
- Soy milk
- Egg drop soup
- Fresh fruit
- Light vegetable salad
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration
Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Freezing
Wrap each bread individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Warm in a 160°C (320°F) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave briefly before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use bread flour for the softest and chewiest texture.
- Steam the sausages first to enhance their flavor and texture.
- Avoid adding too much extra flour during kneading.
- Allow the dough to rise fully for a lighter bread.
- Brush generously with egg wash for a glossy bakery finish.
Variations
Cheese Chinese Sausage Bread
Add a strip of mozzarella or cheddar cheese alongside the sausage before wrapping.
Scallion Sausage Bread
Top with chopped green onions before baking for extra aroma and flavor.
Spicy Version
Add a thin layer of chili sauce inside the dough before adding the sausage.
Mayonnaise Bakery Style
Drizzle mayonnaise in a zigzag pattern over the bread before baking, a popular Asian bakery variation.
Final Thoughts
Chinese Sausage Bread is a beloved Asian bakery classic that combines soft, buttery bread with the sweet and savory richness of Chinese sausage. With its fluffy texture and irresistible flavor, this homemade version is perfect for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or packed lunches. Once you try it fresh from the oven, it is sure to become a favorite addition to your baking repertoire.