Ensaymada, a popular Filipino pastry, is a delightful treat loved by many for its soft, moist texture and cheesy goodness. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee for breakfast or as a sweet snack throughout the day, ensaymada never fails to bring comfort and satisfaction. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can now recreate this delectable pastry at home, filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread and melted cheese. Let’s get baking and indulge in the goodness of homemade Ensaymada!
**Ensaymada Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup bread crumbs
– 1/4 cup melted butter for brushing
– 1 cup grated Edam or Queso de Bola cheese (for topping)
**Instructions:**
1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
2. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, 2 eggs, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
6. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and divide it into 16 equal portions. Shape each portion into a ball.
7. Flatten each dough ball and spread a teaspoon of grated cheddar cheese onto each piece. Roll them up into coils, tucking the ends underneath to form a spiral shape.
8. Place the rolled dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
10. Bake the ensaymadas for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and brush the tops with melted butter. Roll the tops of the ensaymadas in bread crumbs.
12. Sprinkle generously with grated Edam or Queso de Bola cheese on top of each ensaymada.
13. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious, cheesy Ensaymadas with your favorite beverage.
Recreating the warmth and comfort of these Filipino delights in your own kitchen is a delightful experience that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Ensaymada recipe will guide you through the steps to create these soft, moist, and cheesy pastries. Bake a batch today and savor the homemade goodness of Ensaymada with every delectable bite!
