Vegemite and Cheese Ensaymada: A Sweet Twist on an Australian Classic

Introducing Vegemite and Cheese Ensaymada, a delightful fusion of the beloved Australian Vegemite and cheese scroll with the traditional Filipino ensaymada. This sweet and savory bread roll offers a perfect blend of flavors, making it a delicious snack or a delightful addition to your kids' lunch boxes or a match with your tea or coffee. This unique creation has become a favorite in my family and is sure to captivate your taste buds as well.

 

A Marriage of Flavors:

Vegemite and Cheese Ensaymada brings together the sweet essence of Filipino ensaymada and the savory goodness of Australian Vegemite and cheese. This unique combination results in a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors that dance on your palate with every bite.

 

Perfect for Any Occasion:

Whether you're enjoying it as a midday snack, packing it in your kids' lunch boxes, or savoring it during a family gathering, Vegemite and Cheese Ensaymada is a versatile treat suitable for various occasions. Its irresistible flavor is sure to make it a crowd-pleaser.

 

A Unique Twist on Traditional Ensaymada:

While traditional ensaymada is typically filled with sweet fillings like custard, ube jam, or yema, Vegemite adds a unique twist. This savory yeast extract spread, beloved in Australia, was my husband's idea. His love for Vegemite inspired this experiment, resulting in a perfect blend of sweetness and saltiness in these delightful bread rolls.

 

About Vegemite:

Vegemite is an iconic Australian food yeast extract spread made from leftover brewer's yeast extract. It's not only a savory delight but also an excellent source of B vitamins. To learn more about Vegemite.

 

 

How to Make Vegemite and Cheese Ensaymada:

Ingredients:

- 4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)

- 7 grams dry yeast (1 sachet, Tandaco brand)

- ½ cup white sugar

- 1 tsp salt

- 3 egg yolks

- ¾ cup fresh milk (lukewarm)

- ½ cup water (lukewarm)

- ½ cup butter (softened)

- Extra flour for kneading

 

Fillings:

- 1 cup cheese

- 3 tbsp Vegemite

 

Toppings:

- ¼ cup melted butter for brushing

- Softened ½ cup white sugar

- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese

 

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine sifted flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix well.

 2. Add egg yolks, softened butter, lukewarm milk, and lukewarm water. Use a paddle attachment and mix at low speed until the ingredients are incorporated.

 3. Switch to a dough hook attachment, scrape the sides, and mix for another 10 minutes at low speed, checking every 3-5 minutes to prevent dough overflow. Scrape the sides, cover the bowl with a towel, and allow the dough to rest for 1 hour.

 4. After 1 hour, remove the cover and punch down the dough. Divide the dough into 10 equal portions or as needed for your ensaymada mold.

 5. Use a rolling pin to flatten each portion into a long rectangle. Spread Vegemite and sprinkle cheese on the dough. Roll the dough into a cylinder and twist it around, tucking the ends underneath to seal.

 6. Place the twisted rolls into greased ensaymada molds and repeat with the remaining dough.

 7. Allow the rolls to rise for another 1 hour.

 8. Bake for 25-30 minutes at 140°C until the tops of the bread are lightly golden brown.

 

Toppings:

1. Let the ensaymada cool to room temperature, then brush with melted butter and dip in white sugar and sprinkle with grated cheese on top.

 

 

Vegemite and Cheese Ensaymada offers a delightful twist on two beloved culinary traditions, combining the sweet essence of Filipino ensaymada with the savory charm of Australian Vegemite and cheese. Whether you're enjoying it as a snack, a lunch box treat, or at family gatherings, this fusion of flavors is sure to leave a lasting impression. Discover the perfect balance of sweet and salty with every bite of Vegemite and Cheese Ensaymada, a unique and irresistible creation that brings joy to every palate.