Ensaymada Bread Recipe

There is something that is just special about Classic Ensaymada Bread-soft, buttery, sweet, and covered in melted cheese. I consider it a treat straight from a bakery; in reality, it is easy to make at home. Whether enjoyed with morning coffee or an afternoon snack, this bread spreads warmth and joy.

What is Classic Ensaymada Bread All About?

Classic Ensaymada Bread is a soft, fluffy, Filipino pastry with slight sweetness. It is usually enriched with an overload of butter and sugar, along with toppings of grated cheese. That sweet and salty mixture is hard to resist! Picture this as a brioche-style tropical bread-it melts away in your mouth and feels light and heavenly.

Ingredients

For the dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tsp instant yeast
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup softened butter

For topping

• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Using a bowl, warm milk, yeast, and a teaspoon of sugar will create a mixture that should set for about five minutes. It becomes foamy after setting.
2. Put in the egg yolks, the remaining sugar, the salt, and the flour, and then mix well.
3. Ten minutes later, knead in the softened butter until the dough becomes elastic and smooth.
4. Dough is placed in a greased bowl, covered, and let to rise for one hour or until doubled.
5. Push down the dough and divide it into small pieces, and roll them using the palms, now it forms a shape like coils or spirals.
6. Arrange on a baking sheet, cover, and allow for rising for 30 minutes.
7. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for around 18-20 minutes or until it is golden brown.
8. Let them cool slightly, and then brush butter on top, sprinkle on some sugar, and finish off with grated cheese.

Storage Tips

• Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, wrap individually and freeze. Reheat before serving.  

Serving Suggestions

• Have it with steaming hot coffee or tea.  
• Warm is best for flavor and softness.  
• Have it as a snack or even as a light breakfast.

Pro Tips

• For a chewier texture, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Try some with cream cheese for even more richness.
• Put a pinch of ube (purple yam) spread inside for a modern twist.

FAQs About Classic Ensaymada Bread

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Margarine can be used, but butter has a richer taste and softer texture.

2. What cheese is best?

Cheddar is what would be typical to use; however, mozzarella or Edam would work for variety.

3. Is it too sweet?

Yes, mildly sweet, balanced by the saltiness of the cheese on top.

4. Can I make it without eggs?

An egg replacer may be used; however, the bread may not be as rich or fluffy.

Try It!

Classic Ensaymada Bread is one recipe that you will want to make over and over again. Soft and buttery, topped with just the right amount of cheese and sugar. Trust me; once you make it, you can never look at store-bought bread the same way again. Go for it, try this recipe out, and see how fast it disappears when shared with your family!