There’s something undeniably captivating about the first bite of a warm, homemade Ensaymada. The pillowy softness and the rich aroma of buttery goodness create a comforting hug for your taste buds. I discovered this fantastic Filipino sweet bread during a family gathering, and I’ve been smitten ever since. This enchanting pastry, topped with a delightful sprinkle of cheese, bridges the gap between sweet and savory, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
When you’re looking to elevate your snack game or impress guests at your next coffee gathering, this addicting Filipino Ensaymada recipe will not disappoint. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this bread offers a welcome escape from the routine of fast food and delivers a homemade experience that warms the heart. Let’s bring a piece of Filipino culture into your kitchen and discover just how delightful it can be!
Why is this Addicting Filipino Ensaymada Recipe special?
Heavenly Softness: The unique texture of Ensaymada makes for a meltingly soft bite that feels like a warm hug.
Buttery Goodness: Each roll is generously brushed with rich butter, enhancing the flavors and creating a divine aroma in your kitchen.
Sweet and Savory: Topped with cheese, this treat perfectly bridges sweet and savory, appealing to a wide range of taste buds.
Cultural Delight: Enjoying Ensaymada connects you with Filipino traditions, making it more than just a snack—it’s an experience.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can impress anyone with little effort. Try making it for your next gathering, and watch your friends and family rave!
Addicting Filipino Ensaymada Ingredients
For the Dough
• Active Dry Yeast – Essential for leavening; always check for freshness to ensure a good rise.
• Warm Water – Activates the yeast; aim for a temperature around 110°F (43°C) for optimal results.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and nourishment for the yeast; substitute with coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
• Bread Flour – This forms the bread’s structure; you can substitute with all-purpose flour if needed.
• Milk – Adds moisture and flavor; swap with almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
• Shortening – A source of fat for tenderness; can be replaced by unsalted butter for extra richness.
• Egg Yolks – Enriches the dough and gives a lovely color; using whole eggs works as a nice alternative.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of the bread; use it wisely to avoid deactivating the yeast.
For the Topping
• Powdered Sugar – Dusting topping for sweetness; granulated sugar can be used if preferred.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds a delightful savory twist on top; feel free to substitute with a cheese of your choice.
This addicting Filipino Ensaymada recipe is sure to bring smiles to the table and create wonderful memories!
How to Make Addicting Filipino Ensaymada
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Prepare Baking Pan: Brush two 30cm round cake pans with softened butter to ensure the Ensaymada doesn’t stick while baking.
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Bloom Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm water with the active dry yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 15 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the bread flour, salt, and sugar. This combination will give your dough structure and flavor, so mix until there are no lumps.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a larger bowl, whisk the milk, shortening, and egg yolks until thoroughly blended. You want a smooth mixture to ensure even distribution in the dough.
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Form Dough: Slowly combine your wet and dry ingredients, including the bloomed yeast. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it’s soft and smooth, creating that beloved Ensaymada texture.
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First Rise: Place the dough ball in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
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Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 14 equal pieces (about 75 grams each), then shape each piece into a ball and roll them into logs.
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Arrange in Pan: Swirl and arrange the dough logs in the prepared pans, cover them, and let them rise for another hour. Watch as they plump up beautifully!
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the Ensaymada for approximately 30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and the kitchen is filled with a tantalizing aroma.
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Finish: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before brushing them with more butter, then generously sprinkle with powdered sugar and top with shredded cheese for that delicious sweet-salty contrast.
Optional: Serve warm with a cup of coffee for a delightful treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Ensaymada
- Kneading Technique: Knead the dough gently until it’s soft; over-kneading can lead to a dense Ensaymada that lacks its signature fluffiness.
- Ideal Rising Conditions: Ensure your dough rises in a warm, draft-free environment; a cold setting can hinder the yeast’s performance, resulting in less fluffy rolls.
- Mixing Dry Ingredients: Take time to whisk the dry ingredients well; this prevents lumps and ensures an even distribution of flavors in your addicting Filipino Ensaymada.
- Yeast Freshness: Always check the expiration date of your active dry yeast; using fresh yeast guarantees a higher rise and better texture.
- Shaping Consistency: Cut your dough into equal pieces when shaping; uniform sizes help the rolls bake evenly and look appealing in the pan.
Addicting Filipino Ensaymada Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Ensaymada experience with these fun ideas!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond or soy milk, and use vegan butter for a plant-based delight.
- Flavor Infusion: Add ube or pandan extract to the dough for a colorful, aromatic twist that enhances sweetness.
- Sweet Swirl: Spread a layer of chocolate hazelnut spread before rolling the dough for a decadent surprise inside.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds for added flavor and texture with each bite.
- Spiced Delight: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon into the dough to give your Ensaymada a warm and comforting warmth.
- Fruity Fillings: Add a layer of your favorite fruit jam or preserves as a filling, paired beautifully with the buttery rolls.
- Savory Switch: Replace the cheddar cheese with a gooey mozzarella for a stretchier, savory topping perfect for cheese lovers.
- Spicy Variation: Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños for an unexpected spicy kick that complements the sweetness.
These variations will not only indulge your taste buds but also make baking Ensaymada a fun adventure in your kitchen!
What to Serve with Addicting Filipino Ensaymada?
Elevate your enjoyment of these fluffy, sweet treats by pairing them with delightful accompaniments that will make your taste buds dance.
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Rich Coffee: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed coffee beautifully complement the sweetness of the Ensaymada, creating a comforting breakfast or snack experience.
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Milk Tea: A warm cup of milk tea adds a soothing element, balancing the richness of the buttery rolls while enhancing the pastry’s sweetness.
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Fruits Salad: Fresh tropical fruits like mango and pineapple offer a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the Ensaymada and adding a vibrant touch to your plate.
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Coconut Jam: This sweet, creamy spread pairs beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor with a delightful tropical twist that complements the cheesy topping.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a simple dessert upgrade, serve warm Ensaymada alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly sweet and cold experience.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the rolls adds a lush indulgence that will make every bite even more delightful.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy hot chocolate can turn your snack into a dessert, and the sweetness perfectly harmonizes with the salty cheese topping.
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Decorative Sprinkles: For a festive touch in any gathering, consider serving these delicious rolls with colorful sprinkles on the side to enhance the presentation and delight of the Ensaymada.
How to Store and Freeze Addicting Filipino Ensaymada
Room Temperature: Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain its soft texture and rich flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks; wrap each Ensaymada in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 6 months; place baked and cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a warm and fluffy Enjoy the addicting Filipino Ensaymada fresh again!
Make Ahead Options
These Addicting Filipino Ensaymada are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After kneading, simply cover and refrigerate the dough to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature for about an hour, shape it into logs, and proceed with the final rise. Additionally, you can also shape and arrange the dough in the pans, cover them, and refrigerate overnight. Before baking, allow them to rise for an hour at room temperature. This approach ensures that your Ensaymada will be just as delicious, fresh, and fluffy, saving you valuable time without compromising taste!
Addicting Filipino Ensaymada Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Ensaymada?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure that your active dry yeast is fresh; it should bubble when bloomed. Use bread flour for structure, and select warm milk—not hot—for a smoother dough.
How can I store leftover Ensaymada?
To keep your Ensaymada delightful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’re extending their freshness, refrigerate them in plastic wrap for up to 2 weeks, but remember that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture.
Can I freeze Ensaymada?
Yes, you can! For optimal freezing, allow your baked Ensaymada to cool completely, then wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 6 months! When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
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What are common troubleshooting tips for Ensaymada baking?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising properly, ensure it’s in a warm environment and that your yeast is fresh. If the texture is dense, it may be due to over-kneading; knead just until soft. Also, make sure to avoid lumps in your dry ingredients to achieve a smooth dough.
Are there any dietary considerations when making Ensaymada?
Definitely! This recipe can be made dairy-free by substituting milk with almond or soy milk, and you can replace shortening with a dairy-free butter option. If allergies are a concern, always check that your cheese and other products are free from allergens specific to your needs.
Can I modify the sweetness of my Ensaymada?
For sure! If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the granulated sugar in the dough. You can use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor without extra sweetness. Don’t hesitate to experiment to find your perfect balance!
Addicting Filipino Ensaymada Recipe for Irresistible Happiness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brush two 30cm round cake pans with softened butter.
- In a small bowl, mix the warm water with the active dry yeast and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 15 minutes until frothy.
- In another bowl, whisk together the bread flour, salt, and sugar.
- In a larger bowl, whisk the milk, shortening, and egg yolks until blended.
- Slowly combine your wet and dry ingredients, including the bloomed yeast, and knead for about 10 minutes.
- Place the dough ball in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled.
- Punch down the risen dough, divide into 14 equal pieces, shape into balls, and roll into logs.
- Swirl and arrange the dough logs in the pans, cover, and let rise for another hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 30 minutes.
- Allow the rolls to cool slightly, brush with butter, sprinkle powdered sugar, and top with cheese.