If you’re looking for a show-stopping baked good that combines pillowy-soft dough with a luscious, creamy filling, the cream-filled sweet bread roll — known in Brazil as rosca doce enrolada com creme — is your next must-try recipe.
Popular in bakeries across Brazil, this braided or spiral-shaped bread is filled with a custard-like cream, creating a decadent interior with every slice.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare the dough and cream from scratch, assemble the rolls properly, and bake them to golden perfection.
Whether you’re baking for brunch, dessert, or a cozy afternoon, this sweet bread brings impressive results.
What Is a Cream-Filled Sweet Bread Roll?
This version of rosca doce includes a homemade vanilla cream (similar to pastry cream or custard) rolled inside the dough. As the bread bakes, the cream melts slightly into the layers, giving each bite a silky, indulgent texture.
Depending on the shaping method, the final result can resemble a twisted braid, a cinnamon roll spiral, or a pull-apart ring.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tsp active dry yeast
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1/2 cup warm milk
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1/3 cup sugar
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2 large eggs
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3 tbsp butter (softened)
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1/2 tsp salt
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Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
For the Cream Filling:
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2 cups milk
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1/2 cup sugar
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2 egg yolks
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2 tbsp cornstarch
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tbsp butter
For the Finish:
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1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (egg wash)
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Powdered sugar or glaze (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cream Filling
Start by preparing the cream so it has time to cool:
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In a saucepan, whisk together the yolks, sugar, and cornstarch.
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Slowly add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until thickened (about 5–8 minutes).
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Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla, and let it cool completely before using.
Tip: Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
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In a small bowl, mix warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar and sprinkle yeast over the top. Let it activate for 10 minutes until foamy.
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In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and zest.
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Add eggs, softened butter, and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until combined.
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Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
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Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Assemble the Sweet Bread
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Roll the dough out into a large rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick).
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Spread the cooled cream evenly across the surface, leaving a 1-inch border.
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Roll the dough tightly from one side, as if making cinnamon rolls.
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Slice into 1.5 to 2-inch rounds, or shape into a ring or braid if preferred.
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Place on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet or pan.
Cover and let it rest for a second rise (20–30 minutes).
Step 4: Bake
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Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
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Brush with egg wash for a glossy golden crust.
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Bake for 25–35 minutes until golden brown and puffed.
Optional Glaze
You can finish the bread with a drizzle of sugar glaze (powdered sugar + milk), or simply dust with powdered sugar once it cools slightly.
Tips for Success
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Cool the cream fully before spreading it onto the dough.
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Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice rolls cleanly.
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Avoid overfilling, which can cause the cream to spill during baking.
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Let it cool slightly before serving, so the cream sets and the bread holds its shape.
Variations to Try
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Add coconut to the cream for a tropical twist.
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Mix in chocolate chips with the filling for a richer dessert bread.
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Shape into buns and bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
Storage and Reheating
This sweet bread is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions and reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10 minutes.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This rosca doce enrolada com creme delivers on both flavor and presentation. The dough is soft, airy, and buttery, while the cream adds moisture and richness to every bite. It’s a great option for:
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Holiday baking
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Family breakfasts
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Special gatherings
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A comforting weekend bake
And the aroma of this bread in the oven? Absolutely irresistible.
A Brazilian Classic You’ll Love Making Again and Again
Mastering cream-filled sweet bread at home gives you access to a traditional bakery delight that feels fancy, but is deeply homey.
Once you try it, you’ll understand why this style of rosca doce is a beloved comfort food in many Brazilian homes — and why it deserves a place in your own kitchen too.