Ensaimada from Mallorca

Ensaimada from Mallorca: Buns with Three Spirals

Who doesn't want to start the day with a delicious and light breakfast? Ensaimada, this delicacy with Spanish origins, brings a touch of magic to the breakfast table. These buns with three spirals are as fluffy as a feather, and their subtle taste offers an unforgettable experience. Thinking of the elegance of the Mallorcan dancers, ensaimada becomes a symbol of tradition and culinary joy.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 16 buns

Ingredients

- 2 cups of white flour (approximately 250 g)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 50 g powdered sugar
- 15 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- 75 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 50 g melted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of water for glazing

Useful

- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- A bowl for kneading
- A clean towel for covering

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Baking Tray

Start by preparing the baking tray. Place a sheet of parchment paper on the bottom of the tray to prevent the buns from sticking. This step is essential to ensure your delight comes out perfectly from the tray.

Step 2: Activating the Yeast

Sift the flour and salt into a large bowl, then add the sugar. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. In another bowl, mix the yeast with the lukewarm milk and let it sit for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is the key to activating the yeast and achieving a fluffy texture.

Step 3: Forming the Dough

After the yeast has activated, pour the mixture into the well in the flour. Sprinkle a little of the flour mixture on top and let it sit for 15 minutes. In another small bowl, beat the egg together with the oil and add them to the flour mixture. Mix until you obtain a smooth dough. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.

Step 4: Proving the Dough

Place the dough in a bowl greased with oil or butter and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise for one hour, or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy texture.

Step 5: Portioning the Dough

After the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Gently flatten it with your hands and cut it into 16 equal pieces. This step ensures the uniformity of your buns.

Step 6: Shaping the Buns

Each piece of dough should be shaped into a long strip of about 38 cm. Dip each strip in the melted butter, ensuring it is well coated. Spiral each strip around its own axis, forming a beautiful spiral. Place the buns on the baking tray, leaving space between them, and tuck the ends under the spirals to seal them.

Step 7: Rising and Baking

Cover the buns with a clean towel and let them rise for another 45 minutes, or until they double in size. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius (gas mark 5). When ready, sprinkle the spirals with water and brush them with the special glazing sugar. Bake for 10 minutes or until they turn golden and appetizing.

Step 8: Cooling and Serving

After baking, let them cool on a rack. These buns are delicious served warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. You can add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a more attractive appearance.

Serving Suggestions

Ensaimada is perfect alongside a cup of aromatic coffee or a warm tea. You can serve it with fresh fruit jam or sweet cream for an extra flavor boost. Don't forget to enjoy it with thoughts of the Mallorcan sun shining over the fine sandy beaches.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Each bun has about 150 calories, making it a relatively light choice for breakfast or a snack. White flour provides carbohydrates, while the egg adds essential proteins. Consumed in moderation, ensaimada can be part of a balanced diet.

Possible Variations

You can experiment with different flavors by adding cinnamon or vanilla to the dough. Also, for a healthier version, you can replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour. Another idea is to add chocolate chips or dried fruits to the dough for a more decadent version.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast. Use 7 g of dry yeast, activating it in the same way as fresh yeast.

2. How do I keep ensaimada fresh? Store the buns in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be consumed within 2-3 days, but are best when freshly baked.

3. Can I freeze ensaimada? Yes, you can freeze the buns. Make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in the freezer. When you want to consume them, let them thaw at room temperature.

I wish you good luck in preparing this delicious ensaimada! Each bite will transport you to the sunny streets of Mallorca, where culinary tradition blends with everyday joy. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 2 cups of white flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 50g powdered sugar, 15g fresh yeast (I used 7g dry), 75ml warm milk, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons sunflower oil, 50g melted butter, 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of water for the glaze.

 Tags:  sweet rolls spirals