There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked pandesal filling the kitchen on a slow morning. Pandesal, a beloved Filipino bread roll, is known for its lightly sweet flavor, soft interior, and golden crust. Whether enjoyed on its own, dipped in coffee, or stuffed with cheese, meats, or jam, this humble bread roll brings comfort and nostalgia with every bite. Traditionally eaten for breakfast or merienda (snack), pandesal has found its way into everyday meals and celebrations, cherished for its simplicity and versatility.
Making pandesal at home may seem daunting at first, but it’s a very approachable bread recipe, especially for beginners. Using common ingredients like flour, yeast, milk, and butter, this version leans into a soft and slightly airy texture that’s perfect for sandwiching or savoring plain. Bread crumbs give it that iconic coating that crisps slightly during baking, creating a subtle contrast to the fluffy inside. This homemade version skips the preservatives and lets you control the ingredients, making it a wonderful choice for families or anyone who appreciates wholesome, made-from-scratch bread.
Ingredients (Makes 18–20 rolls):
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups bread flour
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 5 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/4 cups lukewarm fresh milk
• 1 pouch rapid rise yeast
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix the yeast, sugar, and lukewarm milk. Stir until dissolved and set aside for a few minutes. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, bread flour, remaining sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add in the egg, melted butter, cooking oil, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes or until smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until doubled in size. Once risen, roll the dough into logs and divide into evenly sized pieces. Roll each piece in bread crumbs and place on a baking tray, spaced about an inch apart. Let them rise again for 15–20 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the tops are lightly browned. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Insight & Dietary Notes:
Pandesal offers a balance of carbohydrates and small amounts of fat and protein, making it a satisfying yet light bread option. When made at home, it contains no preservatives or artificial enhancers. However, it’s best enjoyed in moderation if you’re watching sugar or carb intake. This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and eggs, so it’s not suitable for those with related allergies unless modified.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
Did this recipe bring back memories or create new ones? Let us know how your batch of pandesal turned out! Whether you added a twist or followed it exactly, your feedback helps others in the kitchen. Share it with a fellow bread lover and help spread the joy of homemade comfort food!