Can you use baking powder instead of yeast when making ensaimadas?

No, you cannot use baking powder instead of yeast when making ensaimadas.

Yeast is a type of fungus that is used as a leavening agent in baking. It produces carbon dioxide gas which causes the dough to rise. Baking powder is a chemical leavening agent which contains baking soda and an acid. When these two ingredients are mixed with water, they produce carbon dioxide gas which causes the dough to rise.

Yeast and baking powder are not interchangeable and cannot be used interchangeably in recipes. Ensaimadas are a sweet pastry that is made with yeast. If you use baking powder instead of yeast, the ensaimadas will not rise properly and will be dense and flat.