If you’re craving a warm, sweet treat with a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen, this Chinese Brown Sugar Bread (Guo Kui) Recipe is an absolute delight. Combining fluffy, tender bread with a luscious brown sugar and cinnamon swirl, this traditional Chinese baked good feels like a delicious hug in every bite. It’s perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something special that’s simple to make yet wonderfully flavorful.

Chinese Brown Sugar Bread (Guo Kui) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about making this Chinese Brown Sugar Bread (Guo Kui) Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture, sweetness, and richness that make this bread irresistible.

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast: This is the magic that makes your dough rise beautifully and become airy.
1/4 cup warm water: Warm, not hot; it helps activate the yeast without killing it.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and softness.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
3/4 cup warm milk: Keeps the dough tender and moist for a soft crumb.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Adds richness and helps create a tender texture.
1/2 cup brown sugar packed: The star of the filling, providing deep caramel notes and sweet warmth.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a fragrant spice that perfectly complements the brown sugar.
1 tablespoon melted butter for brushing: Gives the crust a beautiful golden sheen and rich flavor.

How to Make Chinese Brown Sugar Bread (Guo Kui) Recipe

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Start by dissolving the active dry yeast and granulated sugar in a small bowl with warm water. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy – this signals that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the dough

In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and salt. Then add the yeast mixture, warm milk, and vegetable oil. Stir everything until a soft dough begins to form. This is the foundation of your bread — soft, pliable, and ready for kneading.

Step 3: Knead the dough to perfection

Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step develops the gluten and ensures the bread will have that perfect, tender chew.

Step 4: First rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and keep it somewhere warm for around an hour or until it doubles in size. Watching your dough grow is always such a rewarding moment!

Step 5: Shape and add the filling

Once risen, punch down the dough gently and roll it out into a rectangle about half an inch thick. Mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this delicious mixture evenly over the dough surface. This is where the sweet heart of the Guo Kui really comes alive.

Step 6: Roll and form

Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, then shape it into a round or oval loaf. This shape will help the juicy filling stay inside and bake evenly. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let it rest for 20 more minutes to relax and rise slightly.

Step 7: Bake to golden perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the loaf lightly with melted butter to encourage a golden brown crust that’s as inviting to look at as it is to eat. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until your Guo Kui develops a beautiful golden hue and fills your kitchen with its sweet aroma.

Step 8: Let cool and savor

Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. This rest allows the sugars to set just enough for perfect, neat slices and makes pulling apart each piece a joy.

How to Serve Chinese Brown Sugar Bread (Guo Kui) Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, a light brush of melted butter after baking enhances the bread’s softness and sheen. You can also sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top for a delicate, sweet finish that’s visually appealing.

Side Dishes

This sweet bread pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of jasmine tea or soy milk, making it a comforting break anytime during the day. For a heartier snack, serve alongside fresh fruit or a mild cheese to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the Chinese Brown Sugar Bread (Guo Kui) Recipe into bite-sized pieces for a party platter or toast the slices lightly and spread with a dab of cream cheese or jam for a delightful twist on breakfast or afternoon tea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Guo Kui tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and soft for up to two days — perfect for enjoying later without losing that freshly baked charm.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, slice and freeze the bread in a sealed freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it at room temperature or toast slices directly from frozen for convenience and taste.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, pop slices in a toaster or oven at low heat, or gently microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel to maintain moisture and softness.

FAQs

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the dough?

It’s best to use granulated sugar for activating the yeast since it dissolves quickly, but you can substitute some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor. Just be mindful the yeast might act a bit slower.

Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Using gluten-free flour blends can work, but since kneading and gluten development are key to this bread’s texture, expect a different, more crumbly result. You may want to experiment with xanthan gum or other binders to mimic gluten.

What if I don’t have cinnamon? Can I skip it?

The cinnamon adds that warm spice note, but if you don’t have it, you can skip or substitute with ground nutmeg or five-spice powder for a different but equally delicious twist.

Can I steam Guo Kui instead of baking?

Absolutely! Steaming yields a chewier, softer bread and is a traditional alternative. Just wrap the rolled dough and steam for 20-25 minutes until cooked through for a delightful variation.

How long should I knead the dough if I do it by hand?

Hand kneading usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes until the dough feels elastic and passes the windowpane test (stretching without tearing). This step is crucial to develop the perfect texture for your bread.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own Chinese Brown Sugar Bread (Guo Kui) Recipe and sharing it with loved ones. The fragrant cinnamon, sweet brown sugar, and soft, tender crumb make it a little slice of comfort that’s both fun to bake and delightful to eat. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make this cherished treat part of your baking rotation!