Ensaymada: Filipino Sweet Bread Recipe
Ensaymada: Filipino Sweet Bread Recipe
Ensaymada is a sweet, buttery Filipino bread with Spanish roots, known for its soft, fluffy texture and spiral shape. It’s traditionally topped with butter, sugar, and grated cheese, making it a popular breakfast or merienda item in the Philippines.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup pork lard or vegetable shortening
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
Toppings:
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Activate yeast: Dissolve yeast in warm milk with 1 tsp sugar. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix dough: In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add softened butter, lard, eggs, and yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape: Punch down dough and divide into 6 portions. Roll each into a long rope, then coil into a spiral shape.
- Second rise: Place on a baking tray, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Top: While warm, brush with butter, sprinkle with sugar, and top with grated cheese.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, add 1-2 egg yolks to the dough.
- Substitute pork lard with vegetable shortening for a non-pork version.
- Some versions include queso de bola (Edam cheese) instead of cheddar.
FAQs
Is ensaymada the same as Spanish ensaimada?
While both share origins, Filipino ensaymada is sweeter, often contains eggs and milk (unlike the Spanish lard-based version), and is topped with cheese.
Can I make ensaymada without a stand mixer?
Yes, though kneading by hand will take longer (15-20 minutes).
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat briefly in an oven or toaster to restore softness.
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