Classic Ensaymada Bread Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered how to bring a touch of Filipino warmth and comfort to your kitchen, the Classic Ensaymada Bread Recipe is your perfect answer. This soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet bread roll, generously topped with butter, sugar, and savory cheddar, is a beloved treat that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. With its irresistible aroma and tender crumb, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to make, share, and savor during any time of day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Classic Ensaymada Bread Recipe just right relies on a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create the soft texture and rich flavor this bread is famous for. Each component plays an important role in delivering the perfect balance of sweetness, tenderness, and that unmistakable cheesy finish.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The essential base that provides structure and softness to the dough.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right touch of sweetness to the dough and topping.
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet): The magical ingredient that helps the dough rise, making it light and fluffy.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F): Gives the bread a tender crumb and subtle richness.
• 1/4 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and helps create the perfect dough texture.
• 3 large egg yolks: Adds richness and a beautiful golden color to the bread.
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened): Contributes to the moistness and buttery taste inside the bread.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a gentle, inviting aroma into the dough.
• For topping and filling: 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus extra butter, sugar, and cheese for finishing touches.

How to Make Classic Ensaymada Bread Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining your warm water with the active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until the mixture turns foamy and bubbly—this tells you the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in making your bread airy and soft.

Step 2: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the warm milk, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and softened butter. Then, pour both the activated yeast mixture and wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir everything together until a soft, sticky dough begins to form; this is the foundation for that classic soft texture.

Step 3: Knead Until Smooth and Elastic

Knead your dough, either by hand or with a dough hook on a mixer, for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This step develops gluten, which ensures each bite is delightfully chewy yet tender. Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Shape Your Ensaymada Rolls

Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide it into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each piece on your work surface, then spread a thin layer of softened butter over each. Sprinkle a little sugar and grated cheddar cheese, then roll the dough into logs. Coil each log into a spiral shape and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or into greased ensaymada molds for that traditional look.

Step 5: Second Rise and Bake

Cover your shaped rolls and allow them to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes, until they puff up nicely. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the ensaymada for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the tops turn a light golden brown. Once baked, let them cool just a bit before moving on to the finishing touches.

Step 6: Add the Classic Toppings

Brush the warm ensaymada rolls generously with softened butter, then sprinkle sugar and grated cheddar cheese all over. This final step is where the true character of this recipe shines, adding that signature sweet and savory topping that makes each bite unforgettable. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best experience.

How to Serve Classic Ensaymada Bread Recipe

Garnishes

The classic topping of butter, sugar, and cheddar cheese is truly iconic, but feel free to get creative by adding a dusting of powdered sugar or even some coconut flakes for an extra touch of texture and flavor. These simple garnishes elevate the bread’s charm and make it even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

Classic ensaymada pairs beautifully with your favorite cup of coffee or hot chocolate, making it an ideal breakfast or snack. For a more substantial treat, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a small bowl of creamy custard to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your ensaymada rolls in a circular pattern on a serving plate for a festive look perfect for gatherings. Alternatively, slice one open and add a spread of cream cheese or dulce de leche inside for a luscious dessert twist that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep their soft texture intact. Avoid refrigeration, which can dry out the bread.

Freezing

To keep your Classic Ensaymada Bread Recipe fresh for longer, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well frozen for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Reheating

Warm your ensaymada rolls in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This helps restore their softness and melts the butter and cheese topping just beautifully, recapturing that fresh-from-the-oven experience.

FAQs

Can I use evaporated milk instead of regular milk?

Absolutely! Using evaporated milk can add a richer, creamier flavor to your dough, making your ensaymada even more indulgent.

What if I don’t have cheddar cheese? Can I substitute it?

While cheddar cheese is traditional for its sharpness and texture, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder taste or even a processed cheese that melts well.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?

Yes, the first rise builds volume and flavor, while the second rise after shaping ensures your rolls become light and fluffy with the perfect airy texture.

Can I make ensaymada dairy-free?

It’s possible to substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives, though this might slightly alter the texture and flavor. Choose rich dairy-free butters and milks for best results.

How do I know when the yeast is active?

When mixed with warm water and a bit of sugar, active yeast will foam and bubble within 5 to 10 minutes, showing it is alive and ready to leaven your dough.

Final Thoughts

Making this Classic Ensaymada Bread Recipe is like inviting a warm Filipino hug right into your home kitchen. Its soft, buttery layers combined with sweet and cheesy toppings are simple yet delightfully satisfying. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned baker, this recipe is guaranteed to bring smiles to your table and become a cherished favorite. So go ahead, try it out, and enjoy every fluffy, cheesy bite!

Classic Ensaymada Bread Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 ensaymada rolls 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Classic Ensaymada Bread is a soft, fluffy Filipino sweet bread roll enriched with butter, egg yolks, and topped generously with butter, sugar, and grated cheddar cheese. Perfect as a delightful snack or breakfast treat, this recipe features a tender dough that rises twice before baking to golden perfection, offering a rich, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor with the savory tang of cheese on top.

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Ingredients

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For the dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1/4 cup warm water
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For topping and filling:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened, for spreading)
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Extra butter and sugar for topping
• More grated cheese for garnish

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Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy, ensuring the yeast is active for proper dough rise.
2. Prepare Dough Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and softened butter. Add the wet ingredients and the activated yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft, sticky dough forms.
3. Knead Dough: Knead the dough by hand or with a dough hook for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic, which develops gluten for a tender texture.
4. First Rise: Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size, to create a light and airy crumb.
5. Shape Ensaymada: Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each piece, spread lightly with butter, sprinkle with sugar and cheese, then roll into a log. Coil each log into a spiral shape and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet or greased ensaymada molds.
6. Second Rise: Cover the spiraled dough pieces and let them rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy to ensure a soft final texture.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 15–18 minutes or until lightly golden on top, indicating they are fully cooked.
8. Finish Topping: Let the baked ensaymada cool slightly. Brush the tops with more softened butter, sprinkle generously with sugar, and add a final garnish of grated cheddar cheese. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Notes

• You can store baked ensaymada in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze and reheat when desired.
• For extra richness, substitute warm milk with evaporated milk or add a tablespoon of powdered milk to the dough.
• Ensure the milk and water temperatures are around 110°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
• Use softened butter for spreading and topping to maximize flavor and texture in the finished bread.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Filipino