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Classic Ensaymada Bread: Soft, Sweet, and Cheesy Filipino Delight Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 52 reviews

Classic Ensaymada Bread is a soft, sweet Filipino bread, enriched with butter, eggs, and sugar, rolled into a spiral shape, baked to a golden perfection and topped with melted butter, grated cheese, and sugar for a delightful finish. This recipe delivers a fluffy texture and irresistible flavor that makes it a beloved treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup milk, warmed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Finishing

  • 1/4 cup butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 1/4 cup grated cheese (e.g., cheddar or queso de bolsa)
  • 1/4 cup sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and ensure they are ready to facilitate a smooth cooking process.
  2. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk with instant yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt to evenly distribute all dry components.
  4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then mix them with softened butter and vanilla extract until fully integrated.
  5. Combine Mixtures: Add the yeast mixture and the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl. Mix thoroughly until a soft dough forms.
  6. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, which ensures good gluten development.
  7. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  8. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide into approximately 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a circle and brush with melted butter.
  9. Roll and Shape: Fold each circle in half and then roll it up like a jelly roll to create a spiral shape typical of ensaymada. Arrange each roll in greased molds or on a parchment-lined baking tray.
  10. Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough rolls and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
  11. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
  12. Bake: Bake the dough for 20-25 minutes or until the ensaymada turns golden brown on top.
  13. Cool the Bread: Remove from oven and let the ensaymada cool in the molds for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool further.
  14. Add Finishing Touches: While still warm, brush the ensaymada with melted butter and sprinkle generously with grated cheese and sugar, enhancing the flavor and traditional topping.

Notes

  • Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Kneading the dough well is essential for a soft and elastic final bread texture.
  • The second rise is critical for light and fluffy ensaymada; don’t skip it.
  • Use quality grated cheese like cheddar or queso de bolsa for authentic flavor.
  • The sugar dusting on top balances the cheese saltiness for the perfect sweet and savory bite.
  • Store ensaymada in an airtight container to keep it soft for up to 2 days.

Keywords: ensaymada, Filipino bread, sweet bread recipe, soft bread, cheese bread, homemade bread

Find it online: https://kochenmitviktoria.com/classic-ensaymada-bread-soft-sweet-and-cheesy-filipino-delight-recipe/