Chocolate Ensaïmada Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- ½ cup warm milk
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup chocolate chips
- ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar

Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, salt, sugar, yeast, and cocoa powder.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.

3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until a soft dough forms.

4. Increase the speed to medium and mix for 5 minutes.

5. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes.

6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

7. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

8. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll each piece into a rope.

9. Place the ropes on a baking sheet and shape into a spiral.

10. Brush the dough with melted butter and sprinkle with the chocolate chips.

11. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

12. Let cool for 10 minutes before sprinkling with confectioners’ sugar.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Temperature: 375°F
Serving Size: 12 servings

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 150
Fat: 7 g
Carbohydrates: 19 g
Protein: 3 g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with whole wheat flour.
- Active dry yeast can be substituted with instant yeast.
- Milk can be substituted with almond milk.
- Butter can be substituted with coconut oil.
- Chocolate chips can be substituted with chopped nuts.

Variations:
- Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for a cinnamon-chocolate flavor.
- Substitute the chocolate chips with dried fruit for a fruity flavor.
- Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder for a mocha flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the milk is warm, but not hot, to prevent the yeast from dying.
- Knead the dough for at least 5 minutes to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for the best results.

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the ensaïmada on a platter with fresh fruit and a dusting of confectioners’ sugar.

Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Pairings:
Pair with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk.
- If the dough is not rising, make sure the milk is warm enough.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
- Keep the dough covered while rising to prevent contamination.
- Wash your hands before handling the dough.

Food History:
Ensaïmada is a traditional pastry from the Spanish island of Mallorca. It is made with flour, butter, eggs, and sugar and is usually served with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar.

Flavor Profiles:
This ensaïmada has a rich chocolate flavor with a hint of sweetness from the sugar and chocolate chips.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve for breakfast or as a dessert with a cup of coffee or tea.

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Region: Spanish

Taste: Rich, Sweet, Moist, Chocolatey