From the the Catalan word ensaïmada, referring to the pastry associated with the Spanish island of Majorca.
Ensaymada is a soft, fluffy pastry topped with white sugar and usually finely grated cheese.
Also spelled ensaimada or ensemada.
Origin of the Filipino pastry Ensaymada
The ensaïmada de Mallorca was introduced to the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. On the island of Majorca, the soft bun is traditionally made from flour, water, sugar, eggs and pork lard. In fact, the Mallorquí word saïm derives from an Arabic word that means pork lard.
In the Philippines, ensaymada is made with butter instead of lard. Topped with grated cheese, usually cheddar, it is a popular treat during the Christmas season when it is served with hot chocolate.
Among well-known store brands are Red Ribbon, Goldilocks and Muhlach Ensaymada (wrapped in plastic in the photo above) from Megamelt Bakeshop, which is owned by actor Niño Muhlach.
The Filipino company Croley Foods has Butter Cream crackers in ensaymada flavor. They are available on Amazon. #CommissionsEarned
NOTE: Contrary to what randos have written elsewhere, ensaymada is NOT considered a Filipino breakfast staple. This pastry is a snack or a treat; it’s too sweet to be for a regular breakfast.
KAHULUGAN SA TAGALOG
en·say·má·da: alsadong tinapay na malambot, bilóg, pinapahiran ng mantekilya sa ibabaw, at binubudburan ng asukal
