Ingredients

• 140 g milk, warmed
• 70 g sugar
• 7 g yeast
• 50 g unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg white
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 310 g all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp salt
• 3 apples, peeled and finely chopped

Steps to Make Apple-Infused Sweet Bread Rolls

1. Activate the Yeast:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
   • Sprinkle the yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
   • Add the melted butter, egg white, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture, stirring to combine.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and salt together, then gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise:
   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
4. Prepare the Apples:
   • While the dough is rising, peel, core, and finely chop the apples. Set aside.
5. Incorporate the Apples:
   • Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and transfer it to a floured surface.
   • Knead the chopped apples into the dough until evenly distributed. If the dough becomes sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
6. Shape and Second Rise:
   • Divide the dough into equal portions (about 8-10 pieces). Shape each piece into a small ball and place them on a lined baking sheet or in a greased baking dish.
   • Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until they’ve doubled in size.
7. Bake:
   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top and cooked through. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
8. Optional Glaze:
   • For a sweeter touch, brush the warm rolls with melted butter or sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top before baking.

Nutrition Facts (Per Roll, Approximate)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Sugar: 6 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use whole eggs instead of just the egg white? Yes, using a whole egg will add richness to the dough, though it may slightly alter the texture.
2. What type of apples work best? Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well as they retain their texture and flavor.
3. Can I make these rolls ahead of time? Yes, you can shape the rolls and refrigerate them overnight for a slow rise. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
4. Can I freeze the dough? Absolutely! Freeze after the first rise. Thaw, shape, and let them rise again before baking.
5. What can I serve these rolls with? These rolls are delicious on their own or paired with butter, cream cheese, or fruit preserves.

Tips for Making the Best Apple-Infused Sweet Bread Rolls

1. Warm the Milk Properly: Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it.
2. Use Fresh Apples: Fresh, crisp apples provide the best flavor and texture. Avoid using canned or mushy apples.
3. Knead Thoroughly: Kneading the dough well helps develop gluten, which makes the rolls fluffy and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise Fully: Patience is key. Allowing the dough to fully rise before baking ensures soft, fluffy rolls.
5. Experiment with Flavors: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced variation.

Storage Tips

• In the Refrigerator: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to soften.
• In the Freezer: Freeze baked rolls in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

These Apple-Infused Sweet Bread Rolls are a delightful combination of soft bread and juicy apples, making them a warm and inviting treat. With a hint of vanilla and the natural sweetness of apples, each roll is a blend of comforting flavors perfect for any time of day. Whether served fresh from the oven or reheated later, these rolls are a crowd-pleaser and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Try adding cinnamon or a light glaze for an extra layer of sweetness, and enjoy these tasty treats with your loved ones!