Ensaymada, a delightful and indulgent pastry hailing from the Philippines, is a true testament to the country’s rich culinary heritage. With its soft, buttery dough, topped with sugar, cheese, and often other delightful ingredients, ensaymada is a beloved treat enjoyed by many. While store-bought versions are readily available, there’s something special about crafting these pastries from scratch in the comfort of your own kitchen. Join us on a delightful journey as we unravel the art of making homemade ensaymada.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into the baking process, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup warm milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Softened butter for brushing
- Grated cheese (queso de bola or sharp cheddar)
- Granulated sugar for dusting
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, combine warm milk, a tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for around 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready for the dough.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, eggs, softened butter, and the activated yeast mixture. Knead the ingredients together until a smooth and elastic dough forms. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. Patience is key here, as a well-risen dough results in a light and airy ensaymada.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down to release excess air. Divide it into smaller portions and shape each into a ball. Roll out each ball into a rope-like shape and then coil it into a spiral, forming the ensaymada’s classic shape. Place these on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each pastry.
Step 5: Let It Rise Again
Cover the shaped ensaymadas with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they double in size once more. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Once the ensaymadas have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
Step 7: Add Toppings
Remove the baked ensaymadas from the oven and immediately brush the tops with softened butter. Sprinkle generous amounts of grated cheese and granulated sugar on top while they’re still warm, allowing the butter to help these toppings adhere.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Allow the ensaymadas to cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair these delectable pastries with your favorite hot beverage, such as coffee or hot chocolate, and relish in the soft, buttery goodness.
Homemade ensaymada brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia, capturing the essence of Filipino flavors in every bite. Experiment with different toppings or fillings to suit your taste preferences and share this delightful treat with friends and family. Embrace the joy of baking and enjoy the fruits of your labor with these heavenly, homemade ensaymadas.
