Ensaïmada de mallorca – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Spain Servings: Serves 6
Spain Servings: Serves 6Ensaïmada de Mallorca is a sweet, delicate pastry hailing from the Balearic Island of Mallorca, Spain. This spiraled confection is made with a feather-light dough enriched with lard, offering a distinctive soft and flaky texture. Traditionally served during festive occasions and leisurely breakfasts, ensaïmada has a legacy that dates back hundreds of years, reflecting the island’s rich culinary blend of local and Arabic influences. Its beauty lies not only in its simplicity and gentle sweetness but also in its comforting, cloud-like texture.
Ingredients
- all-purpose flour – 4 cups / 500 g
- granulated sugar – 3/4 cup / 150 g
- active dry yeast – 2 1/4 tsp / 7 g
- lukewarm water – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- large eggs – 2
- unsalted butter – 4 tbsp / 60 g, melted
- lard – 1/2 cup / 100 g
- powdered sugar – for dusting
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in lukewarm water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, melted butter, and yeast mixture.
- Mix the ingredients until a rough dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1-2 hours.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a thin large rectangle. Generously spread the lard over the entire surface.
- Roll the dough, jelly-roll style, into a log. Coil the log into a loose spiral shape.
- Place on a baking sheet, cover, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool slightly and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Substitutions
- lard -> vegetable shortening
- unsalted butter -> margarine
- all-purpose flour -> bread flour
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Enhance flavor complexity by adding a hint of citrus zest.
- Experiment with a longer fermentation time for deeper flavor.
- Incorporate a dusting of cinnamon along with powdered sugar for warmth.
- Try including a sweet fruit filling like apricot or fig for variety.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
