Apas, the beloved Filipino bread rolls, are a staple on many breakfast tables. These slightly sweet, pillowy soft rolls are incredibly versatile and utterly irresistible, especially when fresh from the oven. Whether you enjoy them plain or pair them with your favorite fillings, apas are sure to become a household favorite.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of making apas at home, ensuring you achieve bakery-worthy results. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your newfound baking prowess!
What You’ll Need to Make Apas:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (around 110°F or 43°C)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 large egg, beaten
For the Brushing:
- 1 egg yolk, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Pastry brush
Let’s Make Some Apas!
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In the large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and gently whisk together. Let the mixture stand for about 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy and bubbly. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Combine the Dough Ingredients
Add the melted butter and beaten egg to the yeast mixture and whisk until well combined. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
Expert Tip: “Kneading is crucial for developing gluten, which gives apas their signature soft and chewy texture,” says Chef Maria Reyes, a renowned pastry chef specializing in Filipino cuisine.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it back in the mixing bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Shape the Apas
Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball, tucking the edges underneath to create a taut surface.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the shaped dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each roll. Cover the baking sheet loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 7: Brush and Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk to create the egg wash. Gently brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash, ensuring an even coating.
Bake the apas for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Freshly Baked Apas
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the apas from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.
Enjoying Apas
Tips and FAQs for Perfect Apas:
- Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply add it directly to the dry ingredients, and skip the step of activating the yeast in warm milk.
- My dough isn’t rising. What could be the reason? The yeast might not be active, or the milk might not be warm enough. Ensure your yeast is fresh and the milk temperature is around 110°F (43°C).
- How do I store leftover apas? Store leftover apas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
More than Just Bread Rolls
Apas are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them plain, or slice them in half and fill them with your favorite spreads, jams, or even savory fillings like ham and cheese.
This recipe is a starting point, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and add-ins to create your own signature apas.
Happy baking! We would love to hear about your apas adventures. Share your experience, tips, and photos in the comments below.
