Oh, the Classic Ensaymada Bread—this fluffy, buttery, sweet Filipino treat is like a warm hug in bread form. Imagine soft, pillowy dough brushed with rich butter, sprinkled generously with sugar, and topped with a snowy mountain of grated cheese that melts just slightly into the sweetness below. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, soft and slightly chewy, and utterly irresistible.
Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee, as an afternoon snack, or even dessert (hey, no judgment here!), ensaymada is comfort food that feels like a little celebration every time you bite into it. Trust me, once you try making these at home, you’ll wonder why you ever bought them from the store.
Why You’ll Love Classic Ensaymada Bread
This recipe isn’t just about bread—it’s about bringing a little joy to your kitchen and your table. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a sweet treat after dinner. It’s also great for sharing with family and friends at gatherings.
Budget-Friendly: Made from simple pantry staples—flour, sugar, butter, eggs—nothing fancy but everything delicious.
Quick and Easy: The dough is straightforward to make and the steps are beginner-friendly. If you’ve never baked bread before, this one’s a gentle, rewarding introduction.
Customizable: Love extra cheese? Go for it! Prefer it less sweet? Adjust the sugar. You can also sprinkle with toppings like crushed nuts or salted caramel drizzle.
Crowd-Pleasing: Soft, sweet, cheesy goodness means it’s loved by kids and adults alike. Bring these to any party, and watch them disappear fast.
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Ingredients in Classic Ensaymada Bread
Here’s the magic behind this soft and sweet Filipino classic:
Bread Dough
Made with all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, warm milk, eggs, and a pinch of salt. This dough is soft, slightly sweet, and full of buttery flavor.
Butter
Used generously both in the dough and brushed on top after baking to give that rich, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Sugar
Sprinkled over the top for that perfect sweet crunch.
Grated Cheese
Typically sharp cheddar, the salty tang contrasts beautifully with the sweet dough and sugar—this is the signature topping that makes ensaymada unforgettable.
Instructions
Let’s get baking this Filipino favorite!
Activate the Yeast
Mix warm milk, a pinch of sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy—this wakes up the yeast and guarantees a fluffy dough.
Make the Dough
Combine flour, sugar, salt, eggs, butter, and the activated yeast mixture. Knead until smooth and elastic. The dough should feel soft but not sticky.
First Rise
Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size—usually about 1 to 1.5 hours. This is where the magic happens.
Shape the Ensaymada
Divide the dough into equal portions, roll each into a long strip, then coil or twist into the classic ensaymada shape.
Second Rise
Let the shaped dough rest and puff up again for about 30 minutes.
Bake to Perfection
Bake at a moderate temperature until golden brown and smelling like heaven—usually 15 to 20 minutes.
Butter and Top
As soon as the ensaymada come out of the oven, brush with softened butter, sprinkle generously with sugar, and top with lots of grated cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: Makes about 8–10 ensaymadas
Calories per serving: Approximately 300 (varies with size and toppings)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Bake Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: About 2 to 2.5 hours
How to Serve Classic Ensaymada Bread
Ensaymada is delicious on its own, but here are some ways to make it even better:
With Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Perfect for dunking or nibbling alongside your favorite warm drink.
As a Sweet Breakfast: Pair with fresh fruit or a light yogurt for a balanced start to your day.
Snack or Dessert: Great anytime you need a little pick-me-up or after-dinner treat.
Party Tray: Serve alongside other Filipino breads and pastries for a festive spread.
Additional Tips
Here are some tips to make your ensaymada shine:
Use Fresh Yeast: It helps with a better rise and softer texture.
Don’t Skip the Butter: Both in the dough and as a topping—it’s key to that rich flavor.
Grate Cheese Fresh: Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes way better than pre-shredded.
Cover Dough Properly: Keep your dough covered with a damp towel or plastic wrap while rising to prevent drying out.
Experiment with Fillings: Some like to add salted egg or ube (purple yam) filling inside for a twist.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make ensaymada without cheese?
A1: Yes, but the cheese is part of what makes it classic. You can substitute with grated coconut or skip the topping altogether.
Q2: Can I freeze ensaymada?
A2: Definitely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to a month. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.
Q3: How soft should the dough be?
A3: It should be soft and slightly tacky but not sticky. Add a little flour or milk to adjust as needed.
Q4: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A4: You can substitute dairy and eggs with plant-based alternatives, but it may affect texture and flavor.
Q5: What cheese is best for ensaymada?
A5: Sharp cheddar is traditional, but you can experiment with mozzarella or processed cheese if you like.
Q6: How long does ensaymada keep fresh?
A6: Best eaten within 2 days, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q7: Can I use instant yeast?
A7: Yes! Just mix it directly with the dry ingredients and reduce proofing time slightly.
Q8: How do I get that fluffy texture?
A8: Proper kneading and allowing enough time for the dough to rise are key.
Q9: Can I double the recipe?
A9: Absolutely! Just make sure you have a big enough bowl and space for the dough to rise.
Q10: Can I add toppings like sugar glaze or nuts?
A10: Yes! A light sugar glaze or sprinkle of toasted nuts can add a nice crunch and extra flavor.
Conclusion
And there you have it—Classic Ensaymada Bread, a soft, buttery, cheesy delight that brings a little Filipino sunshine into your kitchen. It’s easy to make, endlessly comforting, and perfect for sharing or indulging all on your own. So go ahead, pull out that mixing bowl, and let the sweet, buttery aroma of fresh-baked ensaymada fill your home. You’re going to love every bite!