Description
Indulge in the classic Filipino sweet bread, Ensaymada, with its soft, buttery dough and generous toppings of cheese and sugar. This recipe guides you through making these delightful bread rolls from scratch.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup water
Topping:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened (for topping)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Making the Dough: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the egg yolks, softened butter, and yeast mixture. Knead until a soft dough forms, adding water as needed.
- Rising and Shaping: Let the dough rise for 1–1.5 hours, then divide into 8 portions. Roll each into a log, coil into a spiral shape, and place on a baking sheet. Let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 15–18 minutes until golden. Top with butter, sugar, and cheddar cheese.
Notes
- Traditional Ensaymada uses Filipino-style cheddar for its signature flavor.
- For a richer dough, use evaporated milk instead of water.
- Best enjoyed warm and can be reheated before serving.
