Lemon-Scented Ensaimadas: A Delicate and Fluffy Delight from Mallorca

Discover the exquisite taste and texture of Lemon-Scented Ensaimadas, a traditional pastry from Mallorca that truly embodies the essence of Mediterranean baking. These ensaimadas are not just soft and melt-in-your-mouth delightful; they are a culinary masterpiece that combines the airy lightness of yeast-leavened dough with the subtle, refreshing zest of lemon. Using high-quality Manitoba flour, these pastries achieve an exceptional fluffiness, making each spiral a joy to unravel and enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This: Ensaimadas are a unique offering in the world of pastries, with their distinct shape and texture setting them apart. The addition of lemon zest infuses a bright, citrusy aroma that complements the sweet, buttery layers beautifully, offering a sensory experience that is both invigorating and comforting. Each bite is a testament to the skill and tradition behind these pastries, making them a must-try for anyone who appreciates the art of baking.

Perfect Occasion: Lemon-Scented Ensaimadas are perfect for a variety of occasions. They make a stunning addition to brunch spreads, are a delightful choice for afternoon tea, and can serve as an elegant dessert at dinner parties. Their sophisticated appearance and refreshing flavor profile also make them ideal for festive occasions like Easter or Mother’s Day, providing a light yet indulgent treat that guests will not soon forget.

Decoration Tips: To enhance the visual appeal of these ensaimadas, dust them generously with powdered sugar just before serving. This not only adds to their sweetness but also highlights their beautiful spiral form. If serving at a spring or summer event, consider garnishing the plate with fresh lemon slices or mint leaves for an extra pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of lemon glaze can also add a lovely sheen and an extra punch of lemon flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a sharper citrus note.

Ingredients

• Ingredients:
  • Dough:
    • 500g Manitoba flour
    • 2 eggs
    • 60g vegetable oil
    • 80g sugar
    • 100g milk
    • 70g water
    • 5g salt
    • 10g fresh yeast
  • For Lamination:
    • 85g butter, at room temperature
    • Zest of 1 lemon
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
• Instructions:
  1. Prepare the Dough:
     • Dissolve the yeast in a mixture of warm milk and water. In a large bowl, combine the Manitoba flour, sugar, salt, eggs, and vegetable oil. Add the yeast mixture and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
     • Allow the dough to rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1-2 hours.
  2. Laminate the Dough:
     • Once risen, roll out the dough into a large rectangle. Mix the softened butter with lemon zest and sugar, then spread evenly over the dough.
     • Fold the dough in thirds, then roll out again. Repeat this process a few times to create thin layers of butter throughout the dough.
  3. Shape and Proof:
     • Cut the dough into strips and roll each strip into a spiral, tucking the end underneath. Place the spirals on a baking sheet, allowing enough room for them to expand.
     • Let the ensaimadas rise again until puffy and nearly doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  4. Bake:
     • Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the ensaimadas for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the surface is slightly crisp.
  5. Serve:
     • Allow the ensaimadas to cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Indulge in these Lemon-Scented Ensaimadas, a delightful treat that brings a taste of Mallorca right to your table, offering a perfect blend of tradition, flavor, and artistry in each spiral.