Classic Ensaymada - a soft and sweet Filipino pastry topped with cheese and butter

Classic Ensaymada

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why make this recipe

Ensaymada is soft, sweet, and easy to share. This recipe gives a tender crumb and a buttery top. It fits for breakfast, snacks, or small parties. You will enjoy a light bread with a sweet cheese finish.

introduction

Classic Ensaymada is a Filipino soft bread topped with butter, sugar, and cheese. It is simple to make at home with basic ingredients. If you want to learn more about the site and recipes, you can read about our work on the site’s about page about Spicy Recips.

how to make Classic Ensaymada Bread

Make the dough, let it rise, shape the rolls, bake, then brush with butter and add sugar and cheese. Work in warm steps: warm milk helps the yeast, and a gentle knead makes the dough smooth. After baking, brushing with melted butter and adding grated cheese gives the classic taste.

Ingredients :

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour (Provides the necessary structure for the fluffy texture.)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (Sweetens the dough.)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (Enhances overall flavor.)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (Ensures a light and airy rise.)
  • 1/2 cup milk (Warmed to activate yeast.)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Softened adds richness.)
  • 3 large eggs (Contributes moisture; alternatives available.)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Optional for traditional taste.)
  • 1/4 cup butter (Melted for brushing.)
  • 1/4 cup grated cheese (Traditionally cheddar or queso de bolsa.)
  • 1/4 cup sugar (For dusting.)

Directions :

Preparation

  1. Warm the milk until it is slightly warm (not hot). Stir in the instant yeast and a teaspoon of sugar. Let sit 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
  3. Beat eggs and vanilla in a small bowl. Add softened butter.
  4. Pour the yeast mixture and the egg mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
  5. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
  6. Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
  7. Punch down the dough. Divide into equal pieces (12–16 portions). Roll each piece into a small log and coil into a spiral or roll into a classic ensaymada shape.
  8. Place shaped dough on a baking tray lined with parchment. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 12–18 minutes or until the tops are light golden.
  10. Remove from oven and brush each bread with melted butter while warm.
  11. Sprinkle with the 1/4 cup sugar and top with grated cheese.

how to serve Classic Ensaymada Bread

Serve warm or at room temperature. These are great with coffee or hot chocolate. Offer extra cheese and butter on the side for people who like more topping.

how to store Classic Ensaymada Bread

  • At room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for 1–2 days.
  • In the fridge: Store in a sealed bag for up to 5 days; bring to room temp before serving.
  • To freeze: Wrap individually in foil and place in a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature and warm briefly in the oven.

tips to make Classic Ensaymada Bread

  • Use warm milk, not hot, to activate yeast without killing it.
  • Measure flour by spooning into the cup and leveling off to avoid dry dough.
  • Knead until dough is smooth; that makes the bread soft.
  • Let the dough rise in a warm draft-free place for best results.
  • Brush with butter while still warm so it soaks in slightly.
  • Grate cheese fresh for better melt and flavor.

variation (if any)

  • Ube ensaymada: Add ube halaya or ube powder to the dough for a purple color and ube flavor.
  • Salted caramel: Drizzle salted caramel on top instead of sugar and add a little sea salt.
  • Butter and sugar only: Skip the cheese for a sweeter, plain style if preferred.

FAQs

Q: Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
A: Yes. If you use active dry yeast, dissolve it in the warm milk with a pinch of sugar and wait 5–10 minutes until it is bubbly before adding to the dough.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes. Use plant-based milk and margarine or vegan butter. The texture will be similar but may be slightly different in flavor.

Q: How do I keep the bread soft for longer?
A: Store in an airtight container and add a slice of bread or a small piece of apple to keep moisture. Do not refrigerate if you will eat within two days.

Q: Can I make smaller or larger rolls?
A: Yes. Adjust baking time: smaller rolls need less time, larger rolls need more. Watch color and test for doneness.

Conclusion

Classic Ensaymada is a soft, sweet bread you can make at home with simple steps. If you like Filipino bakery breads, you may also enjoy reading about a related treat, Spanish Bread – a Filipino bakery favorite, which shares a similar sweet and soft style.