The 10 Best Cheeses for Ensaymada (+7 Alternatives)

Ensaymada is a beloved pastry that hails from the Philippines, and it’s not hard to see why.

Soft, buttery, and topped with a generous amount of grated cheese, ensaymada is a treat that can be enjoyed any time of day.

But what’s the best cheese for ensaymada?

The best cheese to use for ensaymada is cheddar. It melts well and has a mild, creamy flavor that goes perfectly with the sweet and buttery dough of ensaymada. Other options include mozzarella, parmesan, brie, or gruyere.

With so many different types of cheese out there, it can be difficult to know where to start.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best cheeses for ensaymada, as well as 7 alternative cheeses that can add a unique twist to this classic pastry.

Whether you’re a fan of sharp cheddar, creamy brie, or tangy goat cheese, we’ve got you covered.

So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect cheese-ensaymada pairing!

How to Pick the Right Cheese for Ensaymada

When it comes to selecting the right cheese for your ensaymada, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some factors to consider:

• Flavor: The flavor of the cheese can greatly impact the overall taste of the ensaymada. For example, a sharp cheddar will provide a more intense flavor than a mild mozzarella. Consider what type of flavor profile you want to achieve, and select a cheese accordingly.
• Texture: Just like with flavor, the texture of the cheese can make a big difference. Some cheeses, such as feta or blue cheese, have a crumbly texture that can add a nice contrast to the softness of the ensaymada. Others, like brie or camembert, have a creamy texture that can complement the pastry’s buttery flavor.
• Pairing: Finally, consider how the cheese will pair with the other ingredients in the ensaymada. If you’re adding other savory toppings like ham or bacon, a milder cheese like gouda or edam might be a good choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more indulgent flavor profile, a rich and creamy cheese like cream cheese or mascarpone could be a great option. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheese-ensaymada combinations until you find the perfect match!

The 10 Best Cheeses for Ensaymada

Now that you know what to look for when selecting cheese for ensaymada, let’s explore the top 10 best cheeses for this beloved pastry.

Each cheese on this list has been selected for its unique flavor and texture profile, as well as its ability to pair well with ensaymada.

Here are our top 10 picks:

1. Cheddar

A classic choice for topping ensaymada, cheddar provides a sharp and tangy flavor that balances well with the buttery pastry.

2. Parmesan

Grated parmesan cheese is a popular choice for ensaymada toppings in the Philippines. Its nutty and salty flavor adds depth and complexity to the pastry.

3. Mozzarella

Soft and mild in flavor, mozzarella is a great option for those who prefer a more subtle cheese flavor. It also provides a nice contrast in texture to the soft and fluffy ensaymada.

4. Gouda

With a mild and nutty flavor, gouda is a versatile cheese that pairs well with a variety of toppings. It also has a firm texture that holds up well when grated or sliced.

5. Feta

Crumbly and tangy, feta is a great choice for those who want to add a bit of saltiness to their ensaymada. It also pairs well with savory toppings like ham or bacon.

6. Cream cheese

Rich and creamy, cream cheese provides a decadent topping for ensaymada. It’s also a great option for those who want to add a touch of sweetness to their pastry.

7. Blue cheese

For those who enjoy a strong and pungent flavor, blue cheese can be a great option. Its crumbly texture also adds a nice contrast to the softness of the ensaymada.

8. Brie

Soft and creamy, brie provides a mild and buttery flavor that complements the ensaymada’s pastry base. It’s a great option for those who prefer a more subtle cheese flavor.

9. Edam

Similar to gouda in flavor and texture, edam is a mild cheese that pairs well with savory or sweet toppings. Its firm texture also makes it a great choice for grating.

10. Manchego

With a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, manchego is a popular cheese in Spain that can add a unique twist to ensaymada. Its firm texture also holds up well when grated or sliced.

7 Alternative Cheeses for Ensaymada

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, there are plenty of alternative cheeses that can add a unique twist to your ensaymada.

Here are 7 alternative cheeses to consider:

1. Goat cheese: Tangy and slightly earthy in flavor, goat cheese can add a nice contrast to the sweetness of ensaymada. It also pairs well with fruity toppings like jam or preserves.
2. Ricotta: Mild and creamy, ricotta is a great choice for those who want a soft and subtle cheese flavor. It’s also a great option for those who want to add a touch of sweetness to their pastry.
3. Asiago: With a nutty and slightly sharp flavor, asiago can provide a unique twist to ensaymada. Its firm texture also holds up well when grated or sliced.
4. Provolone: Similar in flavor to mozzarella, provolone has a slightly sharper taste and a firmer texture. It pairs well with savory toppings like sausage or pepperoni.
5. Gorgonzola: Like blue cheese, gorgonzola is a strong and pungent cheese that can add a lot of flavor to ensaymada. It’s a great option for those who enjoy bold flavors.
6. Havarti: Mild and buttery, havarti is a versatile cheese that can pair well with a variety of toppings. Its creamy texture also adds a nice contrast to the softness of the ensaymada.
7. Queso fresco: A popular cheese in Mexican cuisine, queso fresco is mild and crumbly in texture. It can add a nice salty flavor to ensaymada and pairs well with spicy toppings like jalapeños.

5 Tips for Making the Best Cheese-Ensaymada Pairings

Pairing cheese with ensaymada can be a bit of an art, but with these 5 tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious and perfectly balanced flavor combinations:

1. Experiment with different cheeses: Don’t be afraid to try out different cheeses to see which ones pair best with ensaymada. You might be surprised by the delicious flavor combinations you come up with!
2. Consider the sweetness of the pastry: Ensaymada is a sweet pastry, so it’s important to choose cheeses that won’t overpower its natural sweetness. Milder and creamier cheeses tend to work best.
3. Balance flavors and textures: When pairing cheese with ensaymada, aim for a balance of flavors and textures. For example, if you’re using a soft and creamy cheese like brie, consider adding a crunchy topping like almonds or walnuts to provide a contrast in texture.
4. Don’t overdo it on toppings: While it can be tempting to load up your ensaymada with lots of toppings, it’s important to remember that the cheese is the star of the show. Don’t overdo it on toppings that might distract from the cheese’s flavor.
5. Trust your taste buds: At the end of the day, the best way to create delicious cheese-ensaymada pairings is to trust your taste buds. If something doesn’t taste quite right, don’t be afraid to switch things up until you find the perfect combination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cheese is an essential ingredient when it comes to making the perfect ensaymada. By selecting the right cheese and experimenting with different pairings, you can create delicious and unique flavor combinations that are sure to delight your taste buds.

Whether you prefer classic cheeses like cheddar and parmesan, or more adventurous options like gorgonzola and queso fresco, there’s a cheese out there that’s perfect for your ensaymada. So why not try something new today and discover your own favorite cheese-ensaymada pairing?