Classic Ensaymada Bread

Classic Ensaymada Bread is a beloved Filipino pastry known for its fluffy texture and sweet, buttery flavor. This delightful version of the traditional ensaymada combines just the right amount of ingredients, making it a perfect treat for breakfast, snack time, or a special dessert. With its silky-soft dough, each bite melts in your mouth, enveloped in the warmth of comfort and nostalgia. Whether enjoyed plain or generously topped with cheese, this recipe will leave everyone asking for more.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 250
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Classic Ensaymada Bread

Making Classic Ensaymada Bread at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma. The soft, fluffy texture is perfect for sharing, and it’s an easy way to impress family and friends. This recipe honors tradition while allowing for personal touches like cheese or sweet toppings. Plus, mastering this bread means you can enjoy it fresh and warm any time you crave a sweet treat.

How to Make Classic Ensaymada Bread

Ingredients:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk, warm
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional, for topping)
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (for brushing)
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (for topping)

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy. This activates the yeast, ensuring your bread will rise beautifully.

• Step 2: Mixing

  In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Stir everything together until you have a shaggy dough.

• Step 3: Kneading

  Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for developing the gluten, giving the bread its characteristic texture.

• Step 4: Rising

  Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This is when the dough becomes fluffy and light.

• Step 5: Shaping

  Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface and sprinkle with sugar and cheese if you’re using it. The cheese adds a wonderful savory element.

• Step 6: Rolling

  Roll the dough tightly into a log, then cut into 12 equal pieces. This will shape your individual ensaymadas, ready for their second rise.

• Step 7: Final Rising

  Place the pieces in greased muffin tins or a baking dish, cover again, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes. This helps them puff up for baking.

• Step 8: Baking

  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top. The lovely golden brown color signals that they are ready to be taken out of the oven.

• Step 9: Finishing

  Brush with melted butter and top with grated cheese. Serve warm to enjoy their full flavor and soft texture.

How to Serve Classic Ensaymada Bread

Classic Ensaymada Bread is best enjoyed fresh and warm, either on its own or with a cup of coffee or tea. You can serve it as part of a brunch spread, paired with fruits, or even with a dollop of whipped cream for a sweeter touch. Its rich and buttery flavor also makes it an excellent addition to festive celebrations.

How to Store Classic Ensaymada Bread

To store your Classic Ensaymada Bread, place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the buns. Wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Expert Tips for Perfect Classic Ensaymada Bread

• Ensure your milk is warm (about 110°F) to activate the yeast properly.
• Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic; this may take longer if you’re kneading by hand.
• Allow enough time for rising—don’t rush it, as this improves the texture.
• Experiment with toppings like grated coconut or chocolate drizzle for some variety.
• If using cheese, opt for a type that melts well for a gooey topping.

Delicious Variations

• Savory Ensaymada: Add chopped herbs or spices to the dough for a savory twist.
• Fillings: Introduce cheese, ham, or sweet fillings like ube or chocolate inside before rolling.
• Toppings: Try sprinkles, dried fruits, or flavored icing for an exciting visual appeal.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
  Yes, you can use instant yeast! Just mix it directly with the flour without blooming it in milk.

• Why is my ensaymada dense?
  Denseness is usually due to under-kneading or not letting the dough rise enough. Ensure you follow the steps carefully.

• How can I tell if my yeast is active?
  If the yeast mixture bubbles and froths after 5-10 minutes, it’s active and ready to use.

• Can I make ensaymada dough ahead of time?
  Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it after the first rise. Allow it to come to room temperature before proceeding with shaping.

• How do I reheat leftover ensaymada?
  To reheat, wrap the bread in aluminum foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

Classic Ensaymada Bread is more than just a delicious treat; it’s a delightful tradition that brings comfort and joy. With its rich buttery flavor and soft, fluffy texture, this bread can easily become a cherished favorite in your home. So, roll up your sleeves, get baking, and enjoy the experience of making this delicious recipe from scratch. Your taste buds will thank you!

Classic Ensaymada Bread

---

• Author: ninjamachinerecipesadmin
• Total Time: 95 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A beloved Filipino pastry known for its fluffy texture and sweet, buttery flavor, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk, warm
• 1/4 cup grated cheese (optional, for topping)
• 1/4 cup butter, melted (for brushing)
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (for topping)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Stir until you have a shaggy dough.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
5. Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface and sprinkle with sugar and cheese if using.
6. Roll the dough tightly into a log, then cut into 12 equal pieces.
7. Place the pieces in greased muffin tins or a baking dish, cover again, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown on top.
9. Brush with melted butter and top with grated cheese. Serve warm.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 75 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Bakery
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Filipino

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg