Teresa's Recipes
Ensaymada
Ensaymada is a beloved and indulgent Filipino pastry known for its sweet, fluffy texture and delightful toppings. Originating from Spain, this soft bread has become a staple in Filipino culture, often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations. Topped with rich butter, a sprinkle of sugar, and a generous layer of grated cheese, Ensaymada is a treat that perfectly balances sweetness and savoriness, making it irresistible. Each bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience that transports you to the heart of the Philippines.
Ingredients
- 4 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoons Instant yeast
- 1/2 cup, plus extra for topping Granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 cup, softened, plus extra for brushing Butter
- 1 cup Evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup, warm Water
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 cup (preferably cheddar or queso de bola) Grated cheese
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 12
- Dish Type: Pastry
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 32g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the eggs, softened butter, evaporated milk, and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a rope shape, then twist it into a coil shape, tucking the ends underneath. Place the coils on a greased baking sheet, allowing space between them.
- Cover the baking sheet with a clean kitchen towel and let the coils rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the ensaymada for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and immediately brush the tops with melted butter. Generously sprinkle grated cheese and a little extra sugar on top while they are still warm.
- Serve warm and enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic Filipino treat!
Tips
- For a unique twist, try adding a layer of ube (purple yam) jam or custard inside the coils before baking.
- You can also experiment with different types of cheese for topping, such as mozzarella or cream cheese.