Ensaymada is a type of Filipino pastry made with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. It is sweet and fluffy, often topped with grated cheese or sugar. One bun of Ensaymada weighing 56 grams contains around 225 calories. If you're watching your calorie intake, you might want to consider limiting your consumption of this delicious treat.

Apart from its calorie content, Ensaymada also contains other nutrients such as carbohydrates, protein, and fat. A single Ensaymada bun can provide you with energy to power through your day. It's a popular snack among Filipinos, especially during breakfast, merienda (snack time), and holidays.

In this article, we'll discuss some essential facts about Ensaymada, including its origin, ingredients, nutritional value, and possible health benefits and drawbacks.

What is an Ensaymada and how is it made?

Ensaymada is a soft, sweet bread that is said to have originated from Mallorca, Spain. It was brought to the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period and has since become a popular pastry among Filipinos. To make Ensaymada, the dough is made by mixing flour, yeast, sugar, eggs, butter, and milk. The dough is allowed to rest and rise before being rolled, coiled, and baked. Once finished, Ensaymada is usually topped with butter or margarine, sugar, and grated cheese. There are different variations of Ensaymada, each with its own unique twist. Some Ensaymadas are filled with ube (purple yam) jam, macapuno (coconut) strings, or ham and cheese. Others may have toppings like salted egg or finely chopped peanuts. Regardless of the type, Ensaymada is a delicious pastry that many Filipinos love to eat.

What is the origin of Ensaymada?

Ensaymada originated from Mallorca, Spain. The pastry is said to be a descendant of 'ensaimades', a type of pastry that is common in the Balearic Islands. During the Spanish colonial era, Ensaymada was introduced to the Philippines and became a popular pastry among Filipinos. Today, Ensaymada is considered a traditional Filipino pastry that is often served during special occasions such as Christmas or weddings.

What are the main ingredients of Ensaymada?

The primary ingredients of Ensaymada are flour, yeast, sugar, eggs, butter, and milk. Depending on the recipe, Ensaymada may also contain salt, vanilla extract, or grated cheese. The dough is the most critical component of Ensaymada because it determines the pastry's texture and flavor.

How many calories are in an average Ensaymada?

One bun of Ensaymada weighing 56 grams contains around 225 calories. This value may vary depending on the Ensaymada's recipe and size. If you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet, it's best to consume Ensaymada in moderation or choose healthier alternatives.

What are the health benefits of Ensaymada?

Ensaymada provides a good source of carbohydrates, which can give you the energy you need to carry out your daily activities. It also contains some healthy fats from the butter and egg yolks. However, Ensaymada is not considered a nutritious food since it is high in calories, sugar, and refined flour. Consuming Ensaymada in moderation can still be part of a healthy diet but should not be the only source of nutrients that you consume.

What are the possible drawbacks of consuming too many Ensaymadas?

Consuming too many Ensaymadas can lead to weight gain, especially if you don't balance it out with regular exercise and a healthy diet. Ensaymada is high in sugar and refined flour, both of which can contribute to metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity. It can also lead to tooth decay if you don't practice good oral hygiene regularly. Hence, eating Ensaymada in moderation is recommended.

What are some variations of Ensaymada?

Ensaymada has many variations, both in terms of shape, size, and flavors. Some Ensaymadas are rolled into coils and then wound into a spiral shape. Others are formed into individual buns or braids. Different variations of Ensaymada can come with various fillings like ube, mongo, bacon, ham cheese, or even chocolate. The variety is endless as long as the dough and the typical Ensaymada ingredients are present.

How to make Ensaymada less calorie-dense?

To make Ensaymada less calorie-dense, you can try using skim milk instead of whole milk. You can also reduce the amount of sugar and butter used in the recipe without compromising taste and texture. You can substitute some of the flour with whole wheat flour or other high-fiber flours, which can help make the pastry more filling and lower its glycemic index. Also, measured portion control can help lower calorie intake.

Where to buy Ensaymada?

Ensaymada is widely available in many bakeries and pastry shops, especially in the Philippines. You can also find it in some Filipino grocery stores and restaurants in other countries. If you want a homemade version, you can try making it yourself using a trusted recipe online or a cook friend's experience who you know.

Are there any alternative desserts with lower calorie content than Ensaymada?

If you're looking for Low-calorie desserts, you can consider opting for fresh fruits, yogurt, or low-fat milk drinks. These are all excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. If you want to indulge yourself, you can try other Filipino desserts like fruit salad, buko pandan, or puto bumbong. Just remember to eat these in moderation and balance them out with regular exercise and a healthy diet.