Ube Cheese Ensaymada

Embracing the Purple Yam Magic: The Ube Cheese Ensaymada Story

Ube seems to be one of the popular ingredients when everyone started baking at home during COVID.

We had all sorts of desserts being made into an ube variety, like pandesal (bread rolls).

Now let's try making some ube cheese ensaymada.

Traditionally, ensayamada is a soft and fluffy pastry covered in sugar and butter.

We bring in the unique taste of ube (purple yam) to put a twist into this popular snack.

Try to get your hands on the best quality ube jam to get the best out of this treat!

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 38 grams of sugar
• 1 teaspoon instant dry yeast
• 60 grams of a whole large egg
• 240 ml of fresh milk (max 30C or 90F)
• 15 ml of ube flavoring
• 405 grams of bread flour
• 3 grams of salt
• 45 grams of unsalted butter

For the Filling

• Ube (Purple Yam) halaya/jam (for filling)

For the Topping

• 95 grams of powdered sugar
• 170 grams of unsalted butter, room temperature
• 60 grams of all-purpose cream (chilled)
• 1/ teaspoon vanilla extract

This recipe yields 18 pieces, each weighing 45 grams (excluding the filling). It's recommended to use a 3.75-inch top and 2.5-inch base molder for the best result.

Let's Get Mixing: Crafting the Ube Ensaymada

1. Start by whisking together the sugar, instant dry yeast, egg, lukewarm milk (max 30C or 90F), and ube flavoring in a large bowl. Ensure everything is well incorporated.
2. In another bowl, combine the bread flour and salt. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients, ensuring the dough remains smooth and elastic.
3. Incorporate the unsalted butter, kneading for approximately 5 to 7 minutes until the dough achieves a smooth texture. The dough will be very sticky so use the slap and fold method. Alternatively, use a stand mixer and knead on medium-high for around 15 minutes.
4. Allow the dough to rest, letting it proof until it has doubled in size.
5. Once proofed, divide the dough into 18 equal parts, roll each part into a ball, and flatten it into a disc. Place a spoonful of ube halaya in the center of each disc and fold the dough over it, sealing it completely.
6. Arrange the rolls on a baking tray and allow them to proof again until they've doubled in size.
7. Bake the rolls in a preheated oven at 160C or 320F for around 20 minutes or until they turn slightly golden but not brown. Remember, every oven is unique, and baking times may vary.
8. While the rolls are baking, prepare the topping by mixing powdered sugar, unsalted butter, all-purpose cream, and vanilla extract until it achieves a creamy texture. Be careful of using cold butter as it will split.
9. Once the rolls are done, allow them to cool slightly before generously applying the topping. Finally, top with some grated cheese.

Nutritional Insights

Given that the recipe yields 18 servings, each serving size is 45 grams (excluding the filling). This serving size contains approximately:

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrate Content: 25 grams
• Cholesterol Content: 30 mg
• Fat Content: 7 grams
• Protein Content: 4 grams
• Saturated Fat Content: 3 grams
• Serving Size: 60 grams
• Sodium Content: 50 mg
• Sugar Content: 10 grams
• Trans Fat Content: 0 grams
• Unsaturated Fat Content: 2 grams

Please note that nutritional values may vary slightly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Perfect Pairs: What to Serve with Ube Ensaymada

Your Ube Ensaymada can easily be the star of any meal, but pairing it with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee elevates the entire eating experience. The warmth and bitterness of the beverages perfectly contrast the sweetness of the ensaymada, making each bite even more enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use dry active yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, but remember that dry active yeast needs to be activated before use. This is done by dissolving it in warm water with a pinch of sugar.

Can I substitute the Ube flavoring with something else?

You could try using Ube powder or fresh, grated Ube. However, the unique flavor and vibrant color might vary.

How long does the Ube Ensaymada last?

If stored properly in an airtight container, it should last for about 3 to 4 days.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute the regular milk with a plant-based one, replace the egg with a flaxseed egg, and use vegan butter.

Can I freeze the Ube Ensaymada?

Yes, the ensaymada freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it securely in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer bag.