Ensaymada

why make this recipe

Ensaymada is a delicious Filipino pastry that brings a bit of sweetness and warmth to your table. With its soft, fluffy texture and buttery flavor, it is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Making ensaymada can be a fun baking project, especially when shared with family and friends. This treat also offers room for customization, allowing you to add cheese or sugar on top, making it even more delightful.

how to make Ensaymada

Ingredients :

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 eggs
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup sugar for topping (optional)

Directions :

1. In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, and the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients.
4. Mix until a dough forms; knead for about 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.
6. Punch down the dough and divide it into portions.
7. Roll each portion into a long shape and then coil it into a spiral.
8. Place on greased baking sheets and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Optional: Top with grated cheese and sugar before serving.

how to serve Ensaymada

Serve ensaymada warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain or add a sprinkle of grated cheese and sugar on top for extra flavor. It pairs nicely with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.

how to store Ensaymada

To store ensaymada, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it fresh for a longer period, you can freeze it. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

tips to make Ensaymada

• Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best rise. If it doesn’t foam in the warm milk, it’s best to start over.
• Knead the dough well until it’s smooth; this will help it rise better.
• If you want a richer flavor, try adding a little bit of vanilla extract to the dough.
• For a lighter ensaymada, let the dough rise longer for an airy texture.

variation

You can add ingredients like ube (purple yam) or pandan flavoring to give your ensaymada a unique twist. Some also enjoy adding a layer of buttercream on top after baking for a sweeter treat.

FAQs

1. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use bread flour for a chewier texture, but all-purpose flour works just fine for a soft ensaymada.

2. How long does it take for the dough to rise?
It usually takes about 1-2 hours for the dough to double in size, but this can vary depending on the temperature in your kitchen.

3. Can I make ensaymada ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and shape the ensaymada a day in advance. Just place them in the refrigerator after the first rise and let them come to room temperature before baking.