How to Make Traditional Filipino Ensaymada Bread
Ensaymada is a beloved Filipino bread that has won the hearts of many with its soft, buttery, and slightly sweet flavor. This traditional pastry is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate during breakfast or as a snack. Ensaymada’s unique texture comes from its pillowy softness and the delicate sweetness of the butter, sugar, and cheese topping. Making Ensaymada at home may seem intimidating, but with the right ingredients and method, you can recreate this Filipino favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Ensaymada Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup lukewarm water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing)
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (preferably queso de bola or any semi-soft cheese)
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheets or pans
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Oven
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Ensaymada
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the surface of the milk and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. If the yeast does not foam, it might be old or inactive, and you’ll need to use a fresh packet.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture. Also, add the eggs and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until it begins to form a sticky dough.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid adding too much, as this can affect the texture of the bread.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Once your dough is kneaded, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat the dough in oil. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it rest in a warm area for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shape the Ensaymada
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Transfer the dough onto a clean surface and roll it out into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
Spread about 2 tablespoons of softened butter over the surface of the dough. Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the rolled dough into individual pieces, about 2-3 inches wide. Arrange these pieces on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet or in muffin tins for a more traditional shape.
Step 6: Let the Dough Rise Again
Cover the shaped ensaymada with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until they become slightly puffy.
Step 7: Bake the Ensaymada
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the ensaymada has finished its second rise, place the tray in the oven and bake for about 12–15 minutes or until the tops turn lightly golden. The baking time may vary based on the size of your rolls, so keep an eye on them.
Step 8: Prepare the Topping
While the ensaymada is baking, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter and sugar. Once the ensaymada rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, generously spread this butter-sugar mixture on top of each roll.
Afterward, sprinkle grated cheese on top of each roll. The cheese should melt into the buttery surface, creating a wonderful contrast of savory and sweet flavors.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Let the ensaymada cool slightly before serving. The bread is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or toast lightly.
Tips for Perfect Ensaymada
-
Use the Right Flour: All-purpose flour works best for Ensaymada. It provides a perfect balance of fluffiness and structure. Avoid using bread flour as it can make the dough too dense.
-
Rest the Dough: Be patient with the rise times. The dough needs to rest and rise twice to develop its fluffy texture, so don’t rush this process.
-
Use Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is soft and spreadable. Cold butter can make the dough tough, while softened butter will help create a rich, tender bread.
-
Topping Variations: While queso de bola is traditional, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or a combination of mozzarella and parmesan. Just ensure the cheese melts nicely and adds that extra creaminess.
-
Shape Variations: If you prefer a more rustic look, you can shape the dough into a simple log and slice it. Alternatively, using muffin tins will create individual ensaymada rolls, perfect for sharing or gifting.
-
Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the sugar levels to suit your preference. Some people like their ensaymada sweeter, while others prefer it a bit less sweet. The butter topping and cheese combination already adds a lot of flavor, so feel free to experiment.
Conclusion
Making traditional Filipino Ensaymada at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to recreate this classic pastry in the comfort of your own kitchen. By following these steps and tips, you’ll achieve soft, buttery, and flavorful ensaymada rolls that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, as a snack, or at a family gathering, these sweet and savory rolls are sure to delight everyone who tries them.