Patrick Oconnell
Ensaymada is a Filipino bun that is soft, fluffy, and yeasty, with a texture that falls somewhere between a brioche and an angel food cake. It is usually topped with butter, sugar, and cheese, making it a popular breakfast or snack option in the Philippines. While there are many variations of this bun, this paragraph will focus on the type of cheese used in the traditional recipe.
Traditionally, Filipino ensaymada is topped with queso de bola, a type of Edam cheese. However, mild cheddar or mild parmesan cheese are also commonly used as substitutes, as queso de bola may not be easily available in some regions. The cheese is grated and generously sprinkled on top of the bun, adding a savoury dimension to the sweet and fluffy bread.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Cheddar, Edam, Gouda, Parmesan, Velveeta, Queso de Bola |
| Cheese texture | Grated |
| Cheese quantity | 1/2 cup or 75 grams |
| Cheese brand | Land O Lakes |
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What You'll Learn
Filipino processed cheese is best
Ensaymada is a Filipino bun that is soft, fluffy, and yeasty, similar to a brioche or angel food cake. It is typically topped with butter, sugar, and cheese, making it a popular breakfast or snack option in the Philippines. The cheese used in ensaymada can vary, but Filipino processed cheese is considered the best choice. This type of cheese has the perfect texture and flavour that complements the other ingredients in the bun.
Filipino processed cheese has a creamy and smooth texture that melts easily, making it ideal for sprinkling on top of the warm buns. It has a mild and slightly salty taste that balances the sweetness of the bun, buttercream, and sugar. This type of cheese also has a longer shelf life compared to other varieties, making it a practical choice for bakers and consumers. The versatility of Filipino processed cheese allows it to be used in various recipes, enhancing the flavour of both sweet and savoury dishes.
While other types of cheese such as cheddar, Edam, Gouda, and quick-melt processed cheese can be used in ensaymada, they may impart a stronger flavour that overpowers the other ingredients. For example, Edam cheese will give the bun a nuttier and more savoury taste, while mild cheddar provides a more earthy flavour. These cheeses can still be delicious in ensaymada, but they may not achieve the same balance of flavours as Filipino processed cheese.
Using Filipino processed cheese in ensaymada ensures a consistent and well-loved flavour profile that satisfies the preferences of many Filipinos. It is easily accessible and affordable, making it a popular choice for both home bakers and commercial bakeries. This type of cheese also melts well during the reheating process, ensuring that the ensaymada remains delicious even after being stored or refrigerated.
In conclusion, Filipino processed cheese is the best option for ensaymada due to its mild flavour, melting texture, and ability to enhance the overall taste experience of this traditional Filipino bun. Its versatility, accessibility, and long shelf life make it a practical and preferred choice for creating the perfect ensaymada. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or an anytime snack, ensaymada topped with Filipino processed cheese is sure to delight cheese lovers and sweet tooths alike.
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Cheddar is a common choice
Filipino processed cheese is traditionally used for ensaymada, but cheddar is a suitable substitute. A mild variety of cheddar is recommended, as a sharper cheddar may be too overpowering. The cheese should be grated and sprinkled on top of the bun, adding a savoury note to the sweet and fluffy bread.
Ensaymada dough is typically made with a combination of bread flour and all-purpose flour, milk, sugar, and yeast. The dough is then shaped into rolls and baked until golden brown. After baking, the buns are brushed with butter and topped with buttercream frosting and grated cheese.
When making an ensaymada with cheddar cheese, it is important to grate the cheese finely so that it melts easily and adheres to the bun. The amount of cheese used can vary depending on personal preference, but a generous amount is typically recommended to ensure a balanced flavour.
Ensaymada buns can be stored at room temperature in a tightly covered container for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet and savoury flavours!
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Edam for a nuttier flavour
If you're looking for a nuttier flavour, Edam is a great choice of cheese for your ensaymada. This Filipino bun is usually topped with queso de bola, a type of Edam cheese. The mild cheddar variety is also a popular choice, but if you're looking for something a little different, Edam is a perfect alternative.
Ensaymada is a soft, fluffy, and yeasty bun, similar to a brioche or angel food cake. It is often topped with butter, sugar, and cheese, making it a delicious breakfast or snack option. The cheese is typically grated and sprinkled on top of the bun, adding a savoury element to the sweet dough.
When making ensaymada with Edam cheese, you can expect a slightly bitter taste in addition to the nuttiness. This unique flavour combination is sure to elevate your ensaymada and make it stand out from the traditional recipe.
To make the perfect ensaymada, start by preparing the dough. In a mixing bowl, combine milk, sugar, yeast, and flour. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and less sticky. Form the dough into balls and place them on a greased baking pan or brioche mould. Cover and let them rise at room temperature until they have doubled in size.
Bake the buns in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Once they are baked, let the buns cool before adding the toppings. Prepare buttercream frosting by mixing softened butter and icing sugar. Spread the buttercream on the buns and then sprinkle with grated Edam cheese.
With its nuttier flavour, Edam cheese will give your ensaymada a delicious and unique twist. This Filipino treat is sure to impress and can be enjoyed fresh or stored at room temperature for a few days.
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$1.18
Gouda is an option
The ensaymada is a Filipino bun that is soft, fluffy, and yeasty—a cross between a brioche and an angel food cake. It is usually topped with butter, sugar, and cheese, making it a popular breakfast or snack option in the Philippines. While there are many types of cheese that can be used in ensaymada, Gouda is an option.
Gouda is a type of cheese that originates from the Netherlands. It is named after the Dutch city of Gouda, which has a long history of cheese trading. Gouda cheese has a mild, slightly sweet, and nutty flavour. It is known for its smooth, creamy texture and its characteristic pale yellow colour.
When used in ensaymada, Gouda cheese adds a rich and creamy dimension to the bun. Its mild flavour complements the sweetness of the dough and the buttercream topping without overwhelming the other ingredients. The salty notes in the cheese also enhance the overall taste profile of the ensaymada.
In addition to Gouda, other types of cheese commonly used in ensaymada include cheddar, Edam (also known as queso de bola), and processed cheese. Some people also experiment with other varieties such as mild Parmesan, Velveeta, or quick melt-processed cheese.
When choosing the type of cheese for ensaymada, it is essential to consider the desired flavour profile and texture. Cheddar, for example, lends a mild and earthy flavour, while Edam adds a nuttier and slightly bitter note. Processed cheeses, on the other hand, are known for their convenience and melting properties. Ultimately, the choice of cheese depends on personal preference and the availability of ingredients.
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Mild parmesan is an alternative
Filipino ensaymada is a soft, fluffy, and yeasty bun that is usually topped with butter, sugar, and cheese. While the traditional cheese used in ensaymada is queso de bola, a type of Edam cheese, mild parmesan is a suitable alternative.
Queso de bola gives ensaymada a slightly nuttier and more savory flavor, with a slightly bitter taste. If you can't get your hands on this cheese, mild parmesan can be used instead. Parmesan is a hard, granular cheese that has a strong, sharp flavor. It is often used as a topping for pasta dishes, but can also be used in baked goods like ensaymada.
When choosing a parmesan cheese for ensaymada, look for a mild variety that is not too sharp. You want the cheese to complement the other flavors in the bun, such as the buttercream and sugar, without overwhelming them. Grate the parmesan cheese finely so that it melts easily on top of the warm buns and creates a crispy, savory topping.
In addition to queso de bola and parmesan, other types of cheese that can be used in ensaymada include cheddar, gouda, and quick-melt processed cheese. Cheddar, in particular, is a popular choice for its mild and earthy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
No matter what type of cheese you choose, the key to making delicious ensaymada is to use a generous amount of grated cheese on top of the buttercream. This ensures that each bite is packed with flavor and has a delightful combination of sweet and savory elements.
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Frequently asked questions
Filipino processed cheese is the most traditional choice for this Filipino bun, but mild cheddar, Edam, gouda, and quick-melt processed cheese are also popular.
Queso de bola is a type of Edam cheese, so you can use that as a substitute. If you can't find Edam, mild cheddar or mild parmesan are also possible substitutes.
This depends on the size of your ensaymada, but recipes suggest grating between 1 tablespoon and 1 ounce of cheese per bun.
