🍲 **Pandesal 🥖**

Pandesal is a beloved Filipino bread roll, known for its soft texture and slightly sweet flavor. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this delightful bread can be enjoyed with a variety of spreads or fillings.

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🌍 **What Is Pandesal?**

Pandesal, which translates to "bread of salt," is a traditional Filipino bread roll that has become a staple in many households. Its origins date back to the Spanish colonial period, and it is often enjoyed fresh from the oven, making it a favorite among families and friends.

🧾 **Ingredients**

**Base:**

- ½ cup lukewarm water

- ¾ cup full cream fresh milk

- 1 large egg

- ½ cup sugar + 1 tablespoon

- ¾ teaspoon salt

- 5 tablespoons softened butter

- 4 cups all-purpose flour

- 3 teaspoons instant dry yeast

**Optional:**

- Bread crumbs (for coating)

👩‍🍳 **Step-by-Step Instructions**

1. **Prepare the Wet Ingredients**

- In a mixing bowl, combine lukewarm water and full cream fresh milk.

- Add the sugar and instant dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit until foamy (about 5-10 minutes).

2. **Mix the Dough**

- Once the yeast is activated, add the egg, softened butter, and salt to the mixture.

- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms.

3. **Knead the Dough**

- Use a dough hook or your hands to knead the dough for about 3-5 minutes until smooth and consistent.

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- The dough should form a ball.

4. **First Rise**

- Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

5. **Shape the Pandesal**

- Once risen, punch down the dough to release air.

- Divide the dough into small pieces (about 25-30) and shape them into balls.

- Roll each ball in bread crumbs if desired.

6. **Second Rise**

- Place the shaped dough balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

- Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes in a warm environment.

7. **Preheat the Oven**

- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes.

8. **Bake the Pandesal**

- Bake the pandesal in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

- Check for doneness; they should be lightly browned and cooked through.

9. **Cool and Serve**

- Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

🍽️ **How to Serve**

Pandesal is best enjoyed warm. Serve it plain or with your favorite spreads, such as butter, cheese, or Nutella. It can also be used for sandwiches or enjoyed with coffee or tea.

💡 **Pro Tips**

- Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.

- For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients.

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- If you prefer a softer crust, cover the baked pandesal with a clean kitchen towel as they cool.

🔥 **Why You’ll Love This**

Pandesal is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Its soft, fluffy texture and slightly sweet taste make it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or filled with your favorite ingredients, this bread is sure to become a family favorite!