Ensaymada Recipe | Kawaling Pinoy Tasty Recipes (2024)

Ensaymada or ensaimada is a favorite and popular Filipino fluffy bread coated with margarine and butter. Usually the shape is round and resembles a bloated pancake. But some are shaped like large muffins. They are many varieties of ensaymada nowadays especially the commercial ones sold in big bakeshops. Some are loaded with grated cheese and coated with butter, some has filling inside and some have different flavors like ube. But the original ensaymada with it’s plain sugar and margarine coating will always be the favorite.

A Taste of Filipino Delight

Ensaymada, also known as ensaimada, is a beloved treat in Filipino cuisine. This fluffy, sweet bread is often topped with a delectable combination of margarine and butter, making it an irresistible snack or dessert. In this recipe blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps of creating your very own ensaymada masterpiece. Let’s dive into the world of Filipino baking and discover the secrets to crafting this delectable pastry.

Crafting the Perfect Ensaymada Dough

To start your ensaymada adventure, you’ll need to prepare the dough. This process may seem a bit complex, but the results will be worth it.

Creating the Sponge Yeast

Begin by dissolving sugar in warm water. Add the yeast to the sugar-water mixture and let it stand until the yeast softens. Gradually add 1 cup of flour to the mixture, stirring until it’s well blended. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and set it aside in a warm place for about 30 minutes. This step creates what’s known as the “sponge yeast.”

Preparing the Dough

While the sponge yeast is developing, it’s time to work on the dough. Cream the butter and sugar together thoroughly. Add salt and egg yolks to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the milk. Gradually add 4 cups of all-purpose flour, blending thoroughly. Combine this flour mixture with the sponge yeast and mix until you have a well-formed dough.

Kneading and Rising

Knead the dough until it reaches a fine texture. Place the dough in a slightly greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours.

Shaping Your Ensaymada

Now that your dough has risen and is ready, it’s time to shape your ensaymada.

Dividing and Rolling

Punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into your desired size of rolls. Sprinkle a bit of flour on your work surface to prevent sticking, then roll out the dough thinly into a rectangle.

Topping with Flavors

Spread the dough’s surface with melted butter, creating a luscious base for your ensaymada. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the buttered dough.

Rolling and Coiling

Roll up the dough, starting from the lower left-hand corner, to create a long, thin log. Shape the log into a coil or spiral, tucking the end underneath.

Baking and Final Touches

With your ensaymada rolls neatly arranged, it’s time to bake them to perfection. Place your prepared ensaymada rolls in greased ensaimada molds. Allow them to rise for another 2 hours to achieve that perfect, fluffy texture. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake the ensaymada rolls for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

A Finishing Touch of Flavor

Once your ensaymada rolls have baked to perfection, it’s time for the final touches that truly make them stand out. As soon as you take the ensaymada out of the oven, brush them with butter to add a delightful richness. Sprinkle grated cheese and a touch of sugar over the warm ensaymada to create that irresistible sweet and savory combination.

Enjoying Your Homemade Ensaymada

Now that your homemade ensaymada is ready, it’s time to savor the delicious fruits of your labor. Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack or dessert, paired with a warm cup of coffee or tea, the Filipino ensaymada is a treat that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

Variations and Personalization

While the classic ensaymada is a delight in itself, you can always get creative with this recipe. Experiment with different fillings, such as ube (purple yam), to give your ensaymada a unique twist. You can also explore various toppings like cinnamon sugar or even a drizzle of condensed milk for a sweet surprise.

Wrapping-Up

Creating ensaymada at home is a rewarding culinary adventure that allows you to savor the flavors of Filipino cuisine. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll be crafting these fluffy, buttery treats like a pro. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy the delightful taste of homemade ensaymada – a true Filipino favorite.