Ensaimada

Delight your taste buds with the rich, buttery goodness of Ensaimada, the classic spiral-shaped pastry that hails from the sunny Balearic Islands of Spain. Made from a soft, pillowy dough enriched with eggs, milk, and fresh yeast, this traditional treat is skillfully rolled with layers of indulgent butter to create its signature airy texture and flaky spirals. With a golden-brown exterior and a delicate dusting of confectioners' sugar, Ensaimadas are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime indulgence. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to mastering the art of soft dough and achieving the iconic swirling shape, making it a rewarding project for home bakers. Serve warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea for a taste of Spanish bakery bliss!

Nutriscore Rating: 54/100

Prep Time:120 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:140 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 500 grams All-purpose flour
• 100 grams Granulated sugar
• 3 large Eggs
• 125 ml Whole milk
• 50 ml Water
• 20 grams Fresh yeast
• 5 grams Salt
• 150 grams Unsalted butter
• 50 grams Confectioners' sugar

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in the lukewarm water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well using a spatula or hands.

Step 3

In another bowl, beat the eggs and whole milk together. Add the dissolved yeast mixture and blend until well combined.

Step 4

Pour the liquid ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until you have a sticky dough.

Step 5

Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour as necessary to prevent sticking.

Step 6

Once kneaded, form the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly greased bowl, and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 7

Punch down the risen dough and divide it into eight equal portions. Roll each piece into a long rope, then flatten with a rolling pin.

Step 8

Spread a generous amount of softened butter over each strip, then roll the strips from one end to the other to form a tight spiral. Shape the spiral into a coil or snail shape.

Step 9

Place the coiled dough pieces onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them for further rising. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise again for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 10

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 11

Bake the ensaimadas for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 12

Remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust generously with confectioners' sugar before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1154.6 grams (1154.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3804

Total Fat 152.20g	195%
Saturated Fat 82.90g	415%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.10g
Cholesterol 906mg	302%
Sodium 2266mg	99%
Total Carbohydrate 539.70g	196%
Dietary Fiber 13.60g	49%
Total Sugars 157.70g
Protein 77.50g	155%

Vitamin D 180IU	899%
Calcium 349mg	27%
Iron 26mg	145%
Potassium 1089mg	23%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.7%

Protein: 8.1%

Carbs: 56.2%