Soft and Fluffy Filipino Pandesal

Ingredients:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup white sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

1 cup warm milk

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Additional breadcrumbs for coating

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix well.

3. Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the melted butter. Mix until a dough forms.

4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10-15 minutes until smooth and elastic.

5. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a clean cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

6. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and sprinkle breadcrumbs on it.

7. Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions. Shape each portion into a ball, then roll in breadcrumbs.

8. Place the shaped dough on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between each piece. Let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.

9. Bake the pandesal in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

10. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Prep Time: Approximately 3 hours (including rising time)

Nutrition (per serving - recipe makes about 20 pandesal):

Calories: 180

Total Fat: 3.5g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 10mg

Sodium: 200mg

Total Carbohydrates: 32g

Dietary Fiber: 1g

Sugars: 7g

Protein: 4g

Enjoy your homemade soft and fluffy Filipino pandesal! Serve them warm with your favorite spreads like butter, cheese, or jam. They are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container once cooled.