Decadent Filipino Ensaymada Recipe

Indulge in the delightful flavors of a beloved Filipino treat with this recipe for Classic Ensaymada Bread. There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked ensaymada, with its buttery layers and sweet sugary topping. This soft and rich bread is perfect for breakfast or merienda, bringing a taste of home to your table.

My journey with ensaymada began as a holiday bake that quickly became a family favorite. The process of brushing the dough with butter and rolling it in sugar is a nostalgic experience that takes me back to baking with my Lola in her cozy kitchen. The joy of sharing this classic ensaymada with my loved ones is truly special, creating memories that last a lifetime.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to Filipino cuisine, this Classic Ensaymada Bread recipe is sure to bring everyone together. From the first rise of the dough to the final golden bake, each step is a labor of love that results in a pillowy, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. So, gather around the table, savor a warm slice of ensaymada with a hot beverage, and create your own tradition with this timeless and delicious treat.

Quick Benefits

• Enriched dough ingredients like milk, eggs, and butter create a pillowy, tender crumb in the bread.
• Using butter adds a richer flavor and aroma compared to margarine for both the dough and toppings.
• Allowing the dough to rise twice helps develop structure and lightness, resulting in a fluffy ensaymada.
• Serving warm with butter or alongside coffee or tea enhances the classic ensaymada experience.

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Filipino Ensaymada Recipe Recipe

• The buttery spiral layers and snowy sugar topping make this sweet bread a delightful treat for breakfast or merienda, perfect for anyone who enjoys comforting and indulgent baked goods.
• The recipe’s nostalgic notes and personal story behind the ensaymada creation add a special touch, making it a heartwarming and meaningful bake to share with loved ones.
• The meticulous process of brushing the dough with real butter and rolling it in sugar infuses the bread with a rich aroma and flavor, reminiscent of traditional baking techniques and family memories.
• Ensaymada’s versatility in storage options – staying fresh for two days at room temperature or freezing for up to a month – gives you the freedom to enjoy this delicious treat whenever you crave it.
• The option to use margarine or butter in the recipe allows for customization based on personal preferences, ensuring that the bread can be adapted to suit different taste preferences without compromising on flavor.
• The enriching combination of milk, eggs, and butter in the dough, along with proper kneading techniques, results in a soft, tender crumb that is sure to please anyone who loves fluffy, pillowy bread.
• Serving the ensaymada warm with a hot beverage like hot chocolate or coffee creates a cozy and comforting experience, making it an ideal accompaniment for a relaxing morning or afternoon break.
• The addition of grated cheese or condensed milk on top of the ensaymada offers a unique twist for those who enjoy experimenting with different flavors and textures, adding a touch of decadence to the classic recipe.

Ingredients for Decadent Filipino Ensaymada Recipe

Dough

• 410 grams all-purpose flour, sifted
• 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 80 millilitres warm water, 43°C
• Extra all-purpose flour, for dusting
• 60 millilitres fresh warm milk
• 3 tablespoons melted butter or margarine
• 0.5 teaspoon fine salt
• 7 grams instant yeast
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Filling and Topping

• Softened butter or margarine, for filling and topping
• Granulated white sugar, for coating

Pro Tips for Decadent Filipino Ensaymada Recipe

To ensure success with your ensaymada, activate active dry yeast in warm milk with sugar before combining with the other ingredients. This step will help kickstart the yeast for a good rise. Remember, patience is key with yeast-based dough, so allow enough time for proper proofing.

For a richer flavor, opt for butter over margarine in both the dough and toppings. The aroma and taste of butter will elevate your ensaymada to a more decadent level. Don’t skimp on brushing the dough with a generous coat of butter before rolling in sugar—it’s what gives this bread its signature flavor and golden crust.

When shaping the dough, roll it into logs, then coil each into a spiral before baking. This technique helps create the characteristic ensaymada shape with the buttery layers that make this bread so irresistible. Enjoy your classic ensaymada warm or at room temperature, complemented by a cup of hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy snack or breakfast treat.

How to Make Decadent Filipino Ensaymada Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Mix warm water with instant yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in a bowl. Stir until dissolved and let sit in a warm place for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Combine the sifted flour, remaining granulated sugar, and salt in a large bowl, mixing until evenly combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Combine beaten eggs, warm milk, melted butter, and activated yeast mixture with the dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms, adding extra flour if needed for a drier consistency.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 5: First Proof

Transfer the kneaded dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 6: Divide and Shape Dough

Deflate the dough, place it on a floured surface, divide it into four equal portions, and then divide each portion into six pieces, each weighing around 60 grams.

Step 7: Roll Out, Fill, and Shape

Roll each piece of dough into a rectangle measuring 18–20cm by 10–12cm. Brush the center with softened butter, then roll tightly into a 30–35cm long log, sealing the edges. Twist into a spiral shape.

Step 8: Prepare for Second Proof

Place the shaped dough in greased ensaymada molds or a baking pan, ensuring there is space for expansion. Allow it to rest in a warm area for 30 minutes until slightly puffed up.

Step 9: Bake

Preheat oven to 165°C. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and cool completely.

Step 10: Apply Topping and Serve

After cooling, brush with softened butter or margarine, then coat generously with granulated sugar. Serve with coffee or tea.

Storage Tips

To store the finished ensaymada bread, it can be kept fresh covered at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to store it for longer, place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to one month. To revive the softness of the bread after storage, simply reheat it briefly in the microwave or oven before serving. Thaw the frozen ensaymada and toast it gently to enjoy it warm and delicious.

For those who prefer a richer flavor, you can use butter in both the dough and toppings. However, margarine can be a suitable substitute if needed. Additionally, for a more decadent bread, you can swap out part of the milk with evaporated milk. When serving the ensaymada, consider adding a Filipino twist by sprinkling grated cheese over the butter and sugar toppings, or serving it alongside tropical fruits for a delightful party platter. Enjoy the buttery, sweet aroma and flavor of the ensaymada as a delightful addition to your baking traditions.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have instant yeast, you can substitute it with active dry yeast. Activate the active dry yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dough mixture. This will ensure proper fermentation and rise in the bread.

If you prefer to use margarine instead of butter, it can be used interchangeably in the dough and for the toppings. While butter lends a richer flavor, margarine can still provide a good result in the recipe.

To make the bread even richer, you can swap part of the milk with evaporated milk. This substitution will enhance the flavor and texture of the ensaymada, making it even more decadent and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning your classic ensaymada into a decadent dessert by slicing it in half horizontally and adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream in the middle. The warm, buttery bread pairs perfectly with the cold ice cream, creating a delightful contrast in textures and temperatures.

Another fun idea is to create an ensaymada bread pudding by cubing the bread, soaking it in a mixture of milk, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon, then baking it until golden brown and set. Serve the bread pudding warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprinkle of shredded coconut for a tropical twist on a classic comfort dessert.

FAQs for Decadent Filipino Ensaymada Recipe

Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?

Yes, margarine can be used for both the dough and toppings, though butter adds a richer flavor and aroma.

What is the process for shaping the ensaymada bread before baking?

After rolling the dough into rectangles, spread butter, roll into logs, and coil each into a spiral before baking.

Why is it important to let the dough rise twice in this recipe?

Letting the dough rise twice helps develop structure and lightness, ensuring a fluffy bread after baking.

Are there any variations I can try with this classic ensaymada recipe?

Yes, some enjoy adding grated cheese or a touch of condensed milk on top for extra richness and flavor.

Conclusion

In closing, there is something truly special about baking and savoring a batch of Classic Ensaymada Bread. The process of creating these delectable treats is not just about the end result but about the memories and traditions they carry. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe offers a glimpse into the heartwarming world of Filipino baking.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this baking journey. Let the aroma of buttery goodness fill your kitchen and transport you to a place of comfort and joy. Share this beloved recipe with your loved ones and create new memories around a table filled with warm, freshly baked Classic Ensaymada Bread. Happy baking, and may each bite bring you a taste of home.