Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 450-500g (4 cups) wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 13g (½ oz) fresh yeast
• 125ml (½ cup) warm water
• 125ml (½ cup) warm milk
• 1 whole egg + 1 yolk
• 5-6g (½ teaspoon) salt
• 50g (1½ oz) butter, softened

For the Cream Filling:

• 2 egg yolks
• 4 tablespoons sugar
• 10g (½ teaspoon) vanilla sugar
• 10g (½ teaspoon) cornstarch
• 250ml (1 cup) warm milk
• 30g (1 oz) butter, softened
• 100g (3½ oz) nuts (chopped, such as walnuts or hazelnuts)

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 1.5 hours
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes approximately 10-12 rolls, depending on size.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the fresh yeast in the warm water with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This indicates the yeast is active.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the wheat flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center.
2. Add the yeast mixture, warm milk, egg, and yolk into the well. Begin mixing the ingredients until a sticky dough forms.
3. Gradually add the softened butter, kneading it into the dough. Continue kneading on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Make the Cream Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a creamy consistency (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat.
4. Stir in the softened butter until fully incorporated. Allow the cream to cool before folding in the chopped nuts. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 1 cm (½ inch) thick.
3. Spread the prepared cream filling evenly over the dough.
4. Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the longer side. Slice the log into 10-12 even pieces.
5. Arrange the rolls on the prepared baking tray, leaving space between them for expansion. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake

1. Brush the tops of the rolls with a little milk or beaten egg for a golden finish.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 150 mg

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

The allure of homemade bread is a timeless pleasure that transcends generations. These Nut-Filled Sweet Bread Rolls are no exception, as they combine cherished techniques of baking with modern culinary conveniences. Their enduring popularity can be attributed to the following:

1. Universal Appeal: These rolls balance sweet and savory elements, making them perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an indulgent snack.
2. Customizable Flavors: You can adapt the filling to include different nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate for a unique twist.
3. Nostalgic Comfort: The warm, buttery aroma and soft texture evoke the comforting memories of traditional family baking.
4. Perfect for Sharing: These rolls make excellent gifts or treats for gatherings, symbolizing care and togetherness.

FAQs

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes. Substitute with 1½ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Activate it in warm water with sugar, just as you would with fresh yeast.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. After kneading, refrigerate the dough overnight. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out and assembling.

3. Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, both baked and unbaked rolls can be frozen. For unbaked rolls, freeze them after slicing and before the second rise. Thaw and let them rise before baking. For baked rolls, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

4. Can I substitute the nuts in the filling?
Of course! Try using almonds, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.

Tips for Success

• Proper Kneading: Kneading ensures a soft and fluffy texture, so don’t rush this step.
• Warm Ingredients: Use lukewarm water and milk to activate the yeast effectively.
• Don’t Overfill: Avoid overloading the dough with cream filling, as it might spill during baking.
• Cool the Cream: Allow the cream filling to cool completely before spreading it onto the dough.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat slightly before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: As mentioned earlier, rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

The Nut-Filled Sweet Bread Rolls with Creamy Filling are more than just a baked good—they’re a culinary journey that takes you back to the roots of homemade comfort food. The soft, buttery dough, the rich cream filling, and the crunch of nuts create a symphony of textures and flavors that’s impossible to resist.

These rolls are a testament to the timeless art of baking, offering both nostalgia and innovation in every bite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe invites you to embrace the joy of creating something truly special from scratch.

So roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let the magic of these nut-filled rolls transform your kitchen into a haven of warmth and deliciousness. Share them with loved ones or savor them yourself—either way, these rolls are sure to become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.