Description
Classic Ensaymada Bread is a soft, sweet Filipino bread enriched with egg yolks and butter, topped with a generous layer of butter, sugar, and grated cheddar cheese. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, this fluffy, spiral-shaped bread offers a delightful blend of buttery sweetness and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Topping Ingredients
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup softened butter
- Additional grated cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, a pinch of sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt until evenly combined.
- Form Dough: Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, and egg yolks to the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough begins to form.
- Knead Dough: Incorporate the softened butter into the dough and knead by hand for 8–10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.
- First Rise: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape Dough: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Divide it into 10 to 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and coil into a spiral shape.
- Second Rise: Place the shaped spirals on a greased baking sheet. Cover and let them rise again for 45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the ensaymada for 15–18 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown on top.
- Apply Topping: Let the breads cool slightly. Spread each with softened butter, sprinkle with granulated sugar, and generously top with grated cheddar cheese before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, add a bit of powdered milk to the dough.
- You can use quick-melt cheese or a blend of cheeses instead of cheddar for varied taste.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Reheat ensaymada slightly before serving to restore softness and aroma.
