Mary Grace Ensaymada Recipe: Buttery Sweet Filipino Pastry

This Filipino pastry delivers a perfect balance of buttery richness and subtle sweetness in every fluffy bite. The recipe combines soft, slightly sweet dough with a generous topping of melted butter, sugar, and grated cheese for an irresistible treat.

I’ve refined the technique to ensure the dough remains light and airy, with just the right amount of sweetness to complement the savory cheese. The secret lies in letting the dough rise properly and brushing it with butter before and after baking.

What you’ll get is a golden, tender ensaymada with a delicate crumb and a caramelized butter-sugar crust. It’s a beloved Filipino classic that’s perfect for breakfast, merienda, or any time you crave something indulgent.

This recipe stays true to tradition while making it achievable in a home kitchen.

Ingredients for Mary Grace Ensaymada

Soft dough, buttery topping, and cheese create this indulgent Filipino classic.

The flour is the foundation here. King Arthur or Gold Medal all-purpose give consistent results. For the cheese topping, Edam is traditional—look for it in the deli section or specialty cheese counters at Whole Foods. The milk should be whole for richness, but 2% works in a pinch. Yeast freshness is critical—check the expiration date and store unopened packets in the freezer.

No Edam? Mild cheddar or Monterey Jack melt beautifully. Out of breadcrumbs? Crushed cornflakes add a similar crunch. The butter must be unsalted so you can control the salt content—Land O’Lakes or Kerrygold are solid choices. For a richer dough, you can swap the milk for evaporated milk at a 1:1 ratio.

The unbaked dough can rest overnight in the fridge for a slow rise. Baked ensaymada stays fresh for 2-3 days in an airtight container, but honestly it’s best eaten warm. Freeze extras for up to 1 month—reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Filipino Ensaymada

Master this classic pastry with my tested method for fluffy, buttery layers every time.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Prepare the Dough

In a small bowl, dissolve the 1 package Active Dry Yeast in the 1 cup Warm Milk (ensure it’s 110-115°F—too hot kills the yeast). Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy and fragrant. This confirms your yeast is alive and ready to work.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 4 cups All-Purpose Flour, 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar, and 1 tsp Salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast-milk mixture, 2 whole Large Eggs, 1 tsp Vanilla Extract, and 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (softened). The butter should be pliable but not melted.

Step 2: Knead and First Rise

Using a dough hook attachment on low speed, mix until the dough comes together, then increase to medium speed for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should pull away from the bowl sides but remain slightly tacky. If it’s too sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time.

Transfer to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1.5-2 hours or until doubled in size. I check by pressing a finger gently into the dough—if the indentation stays, it’s ready. This first rise develops the structure and flavor.

Step 3: Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the risen dough to release air, then divide into 4 equal portions (about 8-10 ounces each). Roll each portion into a 20-inch log, then coil into a spiral shape, tucking the end under. Place each coiled dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving 2 inches between them.

Cover loosely and let rise again for 45-60 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F during the last 15 minutes of rising. The dough should spring back slowly when lightly pressed.

Step 4: Bake and Add Toppings

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the ensaymada are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. Remove from the oven and immediately brush the tops generously with melted Unsalted Butter (use some of the 0.5 cup reserved for this).

Sprinkle each with 0.25 cup Breadcrumbs and 1 cup Grated Edam Cheese, dividing evenly. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes just until the cheese melts. This step adds the signature Mary Grace texture and richness.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Let the ensaymada cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Dust generously with 0.25 cup Powdered Sugar while still warm so it adheres. The final result should be soft, slightly sweet, with buttery layers and a cheesy, crumbly topping.

Serve warm for the best experience. These are best enjoyed the same day but can be reheated in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore freshness.

Health Benefits of These Flavors

Energy Boost

The combination of carbohydrates from flour and proteins from eggs and cheese provides a balanced energy source. One serving offers about 350 calories, perfect for a sustaining breakfast or mid-afternoon pick-me-up. The natural sugars give you that delightful energy lift without the crash. 💪

Calcium Rich

With 1 cup of grated Edam cheese per batch, this pastry packs a serious calcium punch. Each serving delivers roughly 20% of your daily calcium needs, supporting strong bones and teeth. It’s a delicious way to sneak in dairy for those who might otherwise skip it.

I love that it makes nutrition feel indulgent rather than obligatory.

B Vitamin Source

Enriched flour and eggs contribute valuable B vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. These nutrients help your body convert food into energy and maintain healthy skin. The 2 large eggs provide most of the B12 content, essential for nerve function. 💛

Healthy Fats

While buttery, the unsalted butter contains vitamins A and E, and the cheese provides conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). These fats support cell health and may have anti-inflammatory properties. Moderation is key—the recipe serves 4, so portion control is built in.

Comfort Food Benefits

Beyond physical nutrition, this treat offers emotional nourishment. The familiar taste triggers positive memories for many Filipinos. Sharing these pastries with family creates bonding moments that nourish the soul as much as the body.

Frequently Asked Questions