Melonpan and concha are sweet breads that are known for their signature crunchy tops and soft, fluffy insides. 

These breads are enriched with sugar, eggs, and butter, making them both light and flavorful.  Although they are similar in texture and appearnace,  these breads have a striking difference which lies in their flavors. 

In this post, we take a look at the difference between these breads. 

What is Melonpan? 

Melonpan is a type of sweet bread originating from Japan. The bread consists of a soft, fluffy dough base that is covered with a layer of cookie dough, which gives it its signature crispy shell.

The name “melonpan” comes from the bread’s appearance, which often resembles the ridged surface of a melon, even though the bread itself typically doesn’t contain any melon flavor. The bread is mildly sweet and has a vanilla or butter flavor, making it a popular choice for breakfast or a snack in Japan. 

Sometimes, melonpan can come with variations such as fillings of whipped cream, chocolate, or custard, adding to its sweetness.

What is Concha? 

Concha is a type of Mexican sweet bread that is topped with a crunchy layer of sugar, butter, and flour, which is pressed into a pattern that resembles a seashell, hence the name “concha,” which means shell in Spanish.

This bread is a staple in Mexican bakeries and is enjoyed throughout the day, often paired with coffee or hot chocolate. 

Unlike melonpan, conchas come in a variety of colors and flavors. The topping can be white, pink, brown (chocolate), or yellow, with each color representing different flavors.

The base of the bread is soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, making it a comforting treat. The shell-like pattern gives the concha its distinctive look, but the bread itself remains simple, relying on its texture and subtle sweetness to win over fans. 

Difference Between Melonpan and Concha 

Flavor 

While both melonpan and concha are sweet breads with crunchy toppings, their flavor profiles differ significantly. Melonpan tends to have a more neutral or vanilla flavor, allowing the texture to take center stage.

On the other hand, conchas come in a variety of flavors, including chocolate and vanilla, making them more versatile in taste. Additionally, conchas can be sweeter than melonpan due to the richer sugar content in the crunchy topping. 

Appearance 

The appearance of both breads is also a key distinguishing factor. Melonpan typically has a crosshatch pattern that mimics the surface of a melon. This design is simple yet iconic in Japan. Conchas, however, feature a pattern that resembles a seashell, which is more detailed and often colorful.

The topping of conchas can be bright pink, yellow, or chocolate-colored, whereas melonpan sticks to a more traditional pale color.