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Classic Ensaymada Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 104 reviews

Classic Ensaymada Bread is a traditional Filipino sweet yeast bread known for its soft, fluffy texture and rich buttery flavor. Coated with melted butter, grated cheese, and a sprinkle of sugar, this delightful bread is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. The recipe involves simple ingredients, yeast activation, dough kneading, and two rises before baking to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup milk, warmed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Finishing

  • 1/4 cup butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 1/4 cup grated cheese (e.g., cheddar or queso de bolsa)
  • 1/4 cup sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Gather and measure all required ingredients to ensure a smooth baking process.
  2. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk with instant yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let this sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt to evenly distribute all dry components.
  4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and blend in the softened butter and vanilla extract thoroughly.
  5. Combine Mixtures: Pour the activated yeast mixture and wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix all until a soft dough forms.
  6. Knead Dough: Transfer dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, which develops gluten.
  7. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and leave in a warm area for about 1 hour until doubled in size.
  8. Shape the Dough: Punch down the risen dough to remove air, divide into 12 equal pieces, and roll each into a circle. Spread each with melted butter.
  9. Roll and Shape: Fold each circle in half and roll it up like a jelly roll to form the characteristic spiral shape called ensaymada. Place the shaped dough into greased molds or on a parchment-lined baking tray.
  10. Second Rise: Cover the shapes with a towel and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes until they puff up nicely.
  11. Preheat Oven: Heat oven to 350°F (175°C) during the second rise to ensure it’s ready for baking.
  12. Bake: Bake the ensaymada for 20-25 minutes or until the bread turns golden brown on top.
  13. Cool the Bread: Remove from oven and let the bread cool in the molds for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool further.
  14. Add Finishing Touches: While still warm, brush the breads with melted butter and generously sprinkle each with grated cheese and sugar for the classic topping.

Notes

  • Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to properly activate yeast without killing it.
  • Kneading adequately is crucial to achieving the soft, fluffy texture typical of ensaymada.
  • The two rising periods help develop flavor and lightness in the bread.
  • If you prefer, you can use queso de bola for an authentic Filipino flavor, but mild cheddar works well too.
  • Store any leftover ensaymada in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat gently before serving to enjoy it soft and warm.

Keywords: Ensaymada, Filipino bread, sweet bread, yeast bread, butter bread, cheese bread, classic ensaymada

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