Desserts > Pastry > Spanish

Classic Ensaïmada Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup lard, melted
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup raisins

Special Equipment Needed:
- Large bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the butter, warm water, and yeast. Stir until the yeast is dissolved.
3. Add the yeast mixture to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then cover and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Brush the dough with olive oil, then sprinkle with the lard, sugar, cinnamon, and raisins.
8. Roll the dough up into a log shape, then cut into 1-inch slices.
9. Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.

Time:
Preparation Time: 1 hour, 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 4g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Butter: vegetable shortening
- Lard: vegetable oil
- Raisins: dried cranberries

Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Substitute the cinnamon for 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom for a more exotic flavor.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the dough is rolled out evenly to ensure even baking.
- For a sweeter ensaïmada, increase the sugar to 1 cup.

Storage Instructions:
Ensaïmada can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Ensaïmada can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.

Presentation Ideas:
Ensaïmada can be served with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Garnishes:
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Fresh fruit

Pairings:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Milk

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Yogurt
- Granola

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add a bit more water.

Food Safety Advice:
Ensaïmada should be stored in an airtight container and consumed within 3 days.

Food History:
Ensaïmada is a traditional pastry from the Spanish island of Mallorca. It is believed to have originated in the 16th century.

Flavor Profiles:
Ensaïmada has a sweet and buttery flavor, with hints of cinnamon and raisins.

Serving Suggestions:
Ensaïmada can be served as a dessert or a snack.

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Region: Spanish

Taste: Sweet, Buttery, Fluffy, Rich, Creamy