These Sweet Nut Rolls are a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave something sweet and comforting. Made with a soft, fluffy dough and filled with a crunchy, sweet nut mixture, these rolls are baked to golden perfection. The dough is light and airy, with a subtle sweetness from the vanilla sugar and butter, while the filling provides a satisfying contrast with its rich, nutty crunch. These rolls are perfect for serving at family gatherings, brunches, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rest Time: 1 hour (for dough rising)
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 12 rolls
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 13g fresh yeast (about 1/2 ounce)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (about 1 1/2 tablespoons)
- 10g vanilla sugar (approx. 2 teaspoons)
- 250 ml warm milk (approx. 1 cup)
- 50g butter (approx. 3 1/2 tablespoons)
- 300g flour (about 2 1/2 cups)
- 5-6g salt (approx. 1 teaspoon)
- 100-150g flour (about 3/4 – 1 cup for adjusting dough consistency)
For the Filling:
- 150g butter (approx. 2/3 cup)
- Chopped nuts (your choice, like walnuts or pecans)
- Brown sugar (about 1/4 cup)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon milk
Instructions:
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, mix the fresh yeast, sugar, and vanilla sugar with warm milk. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, then add the butter and mix everything until well combined.
- Gradually add more flour (100-150g) to achieve a soft, slightly sticky dough.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
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Let the Dough Rise:
- Grease a bowl with a bit of oil and place the dough inside, covering it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place for 50-60 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
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Shape the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
- Divide the dough into 2 equal parts and form them into balls. Let the dough rest for about 10 minutes.
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Roll Out the Dough:
- Grease a baking pan with oil.
- Roll out one portion of dough into a rectangle shape, then spread 150g of butter on top.
- Roll the dough up tightly into a tube and repeat with the second portion of dough.
- Place both rolls in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to firm up and make it easier to slice.
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Prepare the Filling:
- While the dough is in the freezer, chop the nuts and prepare the brown sugar.
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Assemble the Rolls:
- After chilling, remove the dough from the freezer and cut it into 12 even pieces.
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts and brown sugar over the dough slices.
- Place the rolls in the greased baking pan.
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Brush with Egg Wash:
- Mix the egg yolk and milk to make the egg wash. Brush the top of each roll with the egg wash to give them a beautiful golden finish when baked.
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Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C/356°F.
- Bake the rolls for 30-35 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
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Serve:
- Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. They are delicious when served warm and are perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
The Origins and Popularity of Nut Rolls:
Nut rolls are a classic pastry in many cultures, particularly in Eastern Europe and Central Europe. The concept of combining dough and sweet fillings has been popular for centuries, with variations found in countries like Hungary, Poland, and Russia. Nut rolls are often made for holidays and celebrations, typically stuffed with walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts, and sweetened with sugar and spices.
The appeal of nut rolls lies in the combination of flaky dough and rich, sweet filling, making them a comforting treat enjoyed during cold weather or festive gatherings. This recipe for Sweet Nut Rolls brings together the tradition of yeast-based dough and nutty sweetness, making it a versatile dessert or snack enjoyed by many across the world.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this recipe because it combines a fluffy dough with a rich, buttery nut filling. The moist dough melts in your mouth, while the nuts and brown sugar offer a satisfying crunch and sweetness. This recipe is easy to make, and it allows you to create a bakery-quality treat at home without any special tools or ingredients. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, making it an ideal choice for gatherings and celebrations.
Health Benefits of Nut Rolls:
- Nuts are a great source of healthy fats, which help support heart health and provide sustained energy.
- Eggs are rich in protein, vitamin B12, and choline, which support brain health and energy levels.
- Butter adds richness and flavor while providing vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy skin and vision.
- Whole grains (if you use whole wheat flour) provide fiber, which helps maintain digestion and supports heart health.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Sweet Nut Rolls with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk for a delicious breakfast or afternoon snack.
- These rolls are also great for a brunch spread or as a sweet dessert after dinner.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat.
Tips:
- Chill the dough: After rolling it up, chilling the dough will make it easier to slice and help prevent the filling from spilling out.
- Use fresh yeast for the best results, as it will ensure a lighter, fluffier dough.
- Experiment with nuts: You can use a combination of walnuts, pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts for the filling depending on your taste.
Variations to Try:
- Cinnamon Sugar: Instead of nuts, try filling the dough with cinnamon and sugar for a spiced version.
- Fruit Filling: Add a layer of apples, berries, or raisins for a fruity twist.
- Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: For a richer filling, use Nutella or another chocolate spread with crushed hazelnuts.
Conclusion:
These Sweet Nut Rolls are the perfect combination of soft, fluffy dough and a rich, crunchy nut filling. They are easy to make, and their delicious flavor makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack, a dessert, or a festive treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
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Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the point of baking, refrigerate them overnight, and bake them the next day. -
Can I freeze these rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the rolls before baking. Once assembled, wrap them in plastic and store in the freezer for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen at 180°C (356°F) for 35-40 minutes. -
Can I use a different filling?
Yes, feel free to substitute the nuts with chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even a custard filling for a different flavor.
Enjoy your Sweet Nut Rolls!