Ensaymada de Malolos: A Fluffy Slice of Filipino Heritage
Ensaymada de Malolos, a beloved Filipino pastry, is a delightful treat known for its soft, buttery dough topped with butter, sugar, and sometimes grated cheese. This iconic pastry brings a touch of indulgence and nostalgia to many Filipino gatherings, evoking memories of comfort and sweetness.
Recipe for Ensaymada de Malolos:
Ingredients:
4 cups bread flour
1/2 cup sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 egg yolks
1 teaspoon salt
Softened butter for spreading
Granulated sugar for sprinkling
Grated cheese (queso de bola or Eden cheese) for topping (optional)
Steps:
In a bowl, dissolve the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
In a separate large bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, salt, and softened butter. Mix well.
Add the yeast mixture and egg yolks to the flour mixture. Knead until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease ensaymada molds or muffin tins.
Divide the dough into portions and shape each into a ball. Place each ball into the prepared molds.
Let the dough rise again for about 30-45 minutes until it fills the molds. 8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown. 9. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Spread softened butter on top and sprinkle generously with granulated sugar. Optionally, add grated cheese on top.
Special Tip: You can experiment with different toppings like ube (purple yam) or salted egg for a unique twist.
Ensaymada de Malolos traces its roots to the town of Malolos in the province of Bulacan, Philippines. The town gained recognition for its culinary heritage, particularly for this delectable pastry. Originally introduced during the Spanish colonial period, ensaymada has evolved over the years, adopting various ingredients and flavors while retaining its essence of buttery goodness.
Ensaymada de Malolos embodies the heart of Filipino baking traditions, offering not just a delightful pastry but a slice of history and culture. Its buttery goodness and versatility in flavors make it a treasured indulgence for many Filipinos. I encourage you to try making Ensaymada de Malolos in your own kitchen and experience the joy it brings. Whether you're a seasoned baker or someone looking to explore Filipino flavors, this iconic pastry promises a delightful journey through time and taste. Embrace the warmth, sweetness, and heritage of Ensaymada de Malolos—one fluffy bite at a time!
