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Ube cheese pandesal has become a beloved staple in Filipino households and bakeries alike. With its vibrant purple hue and creamy cheese filling, this sweet and savory bread roll offers a delightful explosion of flavors with every bite.
Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or paired with your favorite hot beverage, ube cheese pandesal never fails to satisfy cravings and bring joy to those who indulge in it. In this article, we’ll explore the step-by-step process of making this delectable Filipino delicacy right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup mashed purple yam (ube)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Cheese slices or grated cheese, preferably quick melt or cheddar
- Breadcrumbs (for coating)
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, mix the yeast with warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready for use.
2. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed purple yam, sugar, melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour to the mixture while continuously stirring until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Proof the Dough
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Pandesal
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles.
- Divide the dough into smaller portions, about the size of a golf ball.
- Flatten each dough portion and place a slice or a spoonful of grated cheese in the center.
- Seal the edges tightly to enclose the cheese filling and shape the dough into a ball.
5. Coat with Breadcrumbs
- Roll each filled dough ball in breadcrumbs until evenly coated. This will give the pandesal its signature crust.
6. Final Proofing
- Arrange the coated dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space in between each piece.
- Cover the dough balls with a clean kitchen towel and let them proof for another 30-45 minutes.
7. Bake the Ube Cheese Pandesal
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Once the dough balls have doubled in size, bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the freshly baked ube cheese pandesal to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy them warm with your favorite beverage or as a standalone treat.
Conclusion
Ube cheese pandesal is a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that captures the essence of Filipino cuisine. With its soft and pillowy texture, vibrant purple color, and gooey cheese filling, it’s no wonder this bread has become a favorite among food enthusiasts everywhere. By following this simple recipe, you can recreate this beloved Filipino delicacy in your own kitchen and treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of culinary bliss.
