Binangkal: Filipino Sesame Bread Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how simple yet delicious these Binangkal sesame bread balls are. The dough is easy to prepare, and the combination of powdered milk, sugar, and butter gives it a slight sweetness that pairs perfectly with the nutty sesame seeds. The chewy texture inside contrasts with the crispy exterior, making every bite a satisfying experience. Whether enjoyed with coffee, as a snack, or at a family gathering, these sesame bread balls are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 3/4 cup powdered milk

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• 1 tbsp cooking oil or melted butter

• 1/3 cup sugar

• 1 egg

• 1/4 cup evaporated or fresh milk

• 1/2 cup sesame seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, powdered milk, sugar, and baking powder. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, melted butter (or cooking oil), and egg. Stir until smooth.

3. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix everything together to form a dough. It should be soft and slightly sticky, but still manageable.

4. Scoop a tablespoon-sized portion of the dough and roll it into a ball. Once shaped, roll the dough ball into the sesame seeds, making sure it’s coated evenly.

5. Prepare oil in a pan for deep frying. Heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully drop the dough balls into the oil.

6. Deep fry the Binangkal until they turn golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Make sure to flip them to cook evenly on all sides.

7. Once golden brown, remove the Binangkal from the oil and drain them on a paper towel to remove any excess oil.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 12-15 Binangkal depending on the size of the dough balls. It takes approximately 10-15 minutes to prepare and about 5-7 minutes to fry each batch.

Variations

• Add a twist of flavor: You can add a dash of vanilla extract or cinnamon to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.

• For a healthier version: You could use a bit of whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.

• Sweeten it up: If you like your Binangkal on the sweeter side, you can sprinkle some powdered sugar on top once they’re done frying.

Storage/Reheating

Binangkal is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep them crisp, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to bring back their golden crunch.

FAQs

Can I bake Binangkal instead of frying them?

While Binangkal is traditionally deep-fried, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. However, baking will result in a different texture, so expect them to be less crisp on the outside.

Can I use different seeds instead of sesame?

Yes! You can try using poppy seeds, flax seeds, or even chia seeds as a substitute for sesame seeds, though the flavor will vary slightly.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 1-2 days before rolling and frying.

Why did my Binangkal turn out too hard?

If your Binangkal turned out too hard, the dough may have been overworked, or it may have been fried at too high of a temperature. Make sure to fry them at a medium heat and not crowd the pan to ensure even cooking.

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

Yes, you can use regular milk in place of evaporated milk, though using evaporated milk gives the dough a richer flavor. If you use regular milk, the texture may be slightly different.

Conclusion

Binangkal is a perfect snack that balances chewy bread with the nutty, crisp flavor of sesame seeds. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a simple snack at home, these sesame bread balls are sure to delight. They’re quick to prepare, satisfying to eat, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy these golden delights fresh and warm for the ultimate treat!