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Classic Ensaymada Bread

Classic Ensaymada Bread
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Classic Ensaymada Bread is a soft, buttery Filipino sweet bread characterized by its fluffy texture, rich buttery flavor, and perfectly balanced sweetness. This beloved treat is ideal for breakfast or snack time and features a tender crumb topped with butter, sugar, and grated cheese for a nostalgic and comforting experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

Topping

  • Softened butter, for spreading
  • Granulated sugar, for sprinkling
  • Grated cheese (sharp cheddar or queso de bola), for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Begin by activating the yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Once the mixture becomes bubbly and frothy, combine it with the flour, sugar, eggs, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Slowly add softened butter and knead the mixture until it forms a smooth and elastic dough.
  2. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours or until it doubles in size. This step is essential to develop the fluffy texture of the bread.
  3. Shape the Ensaymada: After the dough has risen, divide it into equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope and coil into the traditional spiral shape characteristic of ensaymada. Place each shaped dough piece on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  4. Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough again and let it rise for another 30 to 45 minutes so they puff up before baking, ensuring a tender and airy crumb.
  5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the ensaymadas for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top and have a soft, springy texture inside.
  6. Add Butter and Toppings: While the ensaymadas are still warm, spread softened butter generously on each piece. Then sprinkle with granulated sugar and grated cheese or your choice of toppings for the classic finishing touch.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to help the dough mix and rise more uniformly and quickly.
  • Knead the dough thoroughly to develop gluten for a soft but structured bread.
  • Do not skip the second rise to ensure each ensaymada is tender and airy inside.
  • Rotate your baking tray halfway through baking for an even golden color.
  • Apply butter while the bread is warm so it melts in and enhances flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: classic ensaymada, Filipino bread, sweet bread, buttery bread, soft bread, ensaymada recipe

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/classic-ensaymada-bread/