Cheese Topping: What kind of cheese does it use (processed, cheddar, queso de bola), and how much? Does the cheese add savory contrast?
Buttercream Layer: Does it feel rich and smooth, not heavy or cloying? Is there too much, just enough, or too little? How does it taste?
Bread Texture: Is the bread soft, tender, and fresh-tasting? Does the bread support the toppings without feeling dense or dry?
Overall Flavor Balance: Do the cheese, buttercream, and bread work well together in one bite? Does any element feel too strong or out of place?
Perceived Quality: Based on taste alone, does the ensaymada taste mass-produced or high-end? Does it taste like it uses quality ingredients?
Fine Print
The Lineup: We tested 20 ensaymadas across Metro Manila (plus one from Cavite). We covered brands from bakeshops, cafés, mall kiosks, and time-honored institutions across three price points: Low-Cost (<₱100/pc), Mid-Range (₱100–149/pc), and Premium Ensaymadas (₱100+/pc).
Why We’re Doing This: Ask any fancy tita about the best ensaymada, and you’ll get a different answer every time. Most “best ensaymada” lists online are just compilations of those opinions, often skipping over more mainstream choices from malls. We set out to build a definitive list of the best ensaymada across different price points—and explain exactly what makes each one good.
How We Tasted: Each ensaymada was ordered and tested on the same day to ensure freshness. They were all served as is, unheated.
Blind Taste Test: Each ensaymada was taken out of their packaging and grouped, unlabeled, into three price point categories from least to most expensive. All were tasted blind to prevent brand bias.
How We Scored: Each product was evaluated across five criteria. Final placements reflect the Pepper team’s and testers’ averaged impressions.
Multiple Tests: This taste test has been updated over time. Current placements reflect the most recent tastings plus results from previous tests.
Transparency: No brand paid for inclusion in this taste test.
