Ensaymada

Ingredients

Sponge

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon refined sugar
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast

Dough

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup refined sugar
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
• 1/3 cup butter

Topping

• melted butter
• grated cheese
• sugar

Directions

1. 1

   Combine sponge ingredients in a mixing bowl. Mix until blended and knead until dough is smooth. Shape into ball, cover wit damp cloth and let rise for 2 hours.

2. 2

   Place the dough ingredients except butter in a mixing bowl. Mix until well blended. Add the sponge and the butter. Knead until dough is smooth and elastic. Shape into ball. Place in a bowl, cover with damp cloth and let rise again until double in bulk.

3. 3

   Punch dough and divide equally into 8 pieces. Shape into balls, cover with damp cloth and let rise for 30 minute Roll out each piece thinly into 8 x 5 inch rectangles. Brush surfaces with butter. Roll into long rods and twirl into shape, locking the ends to seal. Place on greased ensaymada molds. Let it rise for 2 hours until doubles in size.

4. 4

   Bake at 325 F for about 10 minute or until light golden brown. Cool slightly and brush with melted butter. Top generously with grated cheese and sprinkle with sugar.