Ensaymada is a sweet and buttery Filipino bread pastry that is popular as a snack or dessert. It is made from a brioche-like dough that is enriched with butter, sugar, and often topped with grated cheese. Ensaymada can be served plain or with additional toppings like buttercream, salted egg, or even ube (purple yam) halaya. It is commonly enjoyed with coffee or hot chocolate and is a favorite treat during special occasions and holidays in the Philippines.
Creating a Sugar-free Filipino Ube Ensaymada involves adapting the traditional recipe to fit within low-carb guidelines.
The carbohydrate content in 1 cup (approximately 132 grams) of cooked ube (purple yam) is roughly 37 grams. This value can vary slightly based on factors such as the specific variety of yam and how it’s prepared (boiled, mashed, etc.), but this is a good estimate for understanding its nutritional content.
Here’s a detailed recipe for paleo-friendly and sugar-free Filipino Ube Ensaymada Pastry:
Filipino Ube Ensaymada Pastry Recipe (Sugar-Free, Paleo)
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving Size: Makes about 12 ensaymadas
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups blanched almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sweetener of choice
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Ube Filling:
- 1 cup mashed cooked purple yam (ube)
- 1/4 cup coconut milk, full-fat
- 2 tablespoons powdered sweetener
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Purple food coloring (optional, for a deeper color)
For Topping (optional):
- 1/4 cup softened butter or ghee
- 1/4 cup powdered sweetener of choice
- Grated cheese, optional
Instructions
Prepare the Ube Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the mashed purple yam, coconut milk, powdered sweetener, vanilla extract, and purple food coloring (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
Make the Dough:
- In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut flour, powdered sweetener, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable. If too dry, add a tablespoon of coconut milk at a time until the dough comes together.
Shape the Dough:
- Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
Assemble the Ensaymadas:
- Flatten each dough ball into a circle on a lightly floured surface, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spoon a tablespoon of the prepared Ube Filling onto the center of each dough circle.
Shape the Ensaymadas:
- Fold the edges of the dough circle towards the center to enclose the filling, forming a ball. Pinch the seams to seal.
- Place each filled dough ball seam-side down onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Let Rise:
- Cover the baking sheet with a clean kitchen towel and let the ensaymadas rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 15-20 minutes.
Bake the Ensaymadas:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the ensaymadas for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown on top.
Optional Topping:
- While the ensaymadas are baking, prepare the topping by mixing softened butter or ghee with powdered erythritol until creamy.
- Once the ensaymadas are done baking, brush the tops with the buttery sweetened mixture. Optionally, sprinkle with grated cheese if desired.
Serve and Enjoy your Sugar-Free Paleo Filipino Ube Ensaymada Pastry!
Notes:
- Purple Yam (Ube): Use fresh or frozen purple yam that is sugar-free and Paleo-friendly. Ensure it is mashed thoroughly for a smooth filling.
- Sweetener: Adjust the amount of sweetener to your taste preferences. Erythritol is used here for its low glycemic index and compatibility with Paleo diets.
- Topping: The buttery sweetened topping adds richness to the ensaymadas. Omit cheese if strict Paleo.
- Storage: Store any leftover ensaymadas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
These Ube Ensaymada pastries offer a delightful twist on the traditional Filipino treat, featuring a sugar-free and Paleo-friendly dough filled with creamy ube filling. They’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, providing a taste of Filipino flavors with a healthier twist!
