Chocolate and hazelnut rolls

Delicious Chocolate and Hazelnut Rolls: An Enticing Recipe for All Sweet Lovers

Who doesn't adore the enticing aroma of a freshly baked dessert filled with chocolate and crunchy hazelnuts? These chocolate and hazelnut rolls are perfect to enjoy alongside a cup of coffee or tea, turning every bite into an unforgettable experience. Moreover, it's a relatively simple recipe that can quickly become a family favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 8

A Brief History of the Recipe
Filled rolls are a traditional dessert found in many cultures, each with its own interpretation. From cinnamon rolls to chocolate ones, these sweet delights have been cherished for centuries. They symbolize not only creativity in the kitchen but also the joy of sharing special moments with loved ones.

Ingredients:
- 500 g flour
- 200 ml milk
- 5 g dry yeast
- 2 eggs
- 100 g butter
- 100 g sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- a pinch of salt
- orange essence (to taste)
- a handful of crushed hazelnuts
- 4-5 tablespoons chocolate spread

Ingredient Details:
- Flour: Choose a good quality flour to achieve a fluffy dough. You can use white flour or a combination with whole wheat flour for a more complex flavor.
- Yeast: Ensure the yeast is fresh to guarantee successful rising. If you prefer, you can use fresh yeast; a quantity of 15 g would be sufficient.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to better control the salt level in the recipe.
- Hazelnuts: They are not just for texture but also add a delicious flavor. You can experiment with other nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or almonds, if desired.
- Chocolate spread: Choose a quality chocolate spread or you can make one at home for an authentic taste.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Milk: In a saucepan, combine the milk with the sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.

2. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the dry yeast with 3 tablespoons of warm milk and 2 tablespoons of flour. Set aside for 15 minutes until it becomes frothy and active.

3. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour and cocoa. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, the rest of the warm milk, the 2 egg yolks, melted butter, and orange essence. Mix by hand to form a dough.

4. Adding the Egg Whites: Whip the egg whites until stiff and gently fold them into the dough. This will give the rolls a fluffy texture. Don't worry if the dough seems softer; it's normal.

5. Letting the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).

6. Shaping the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a buttered surface into a thin sheet (about 1 cm thick). Evenly spread the chocolate spread over the sheet and sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts.

7. Rolling: Roll the sheet tightly, then cut the roll into 4-5 cm pieces. Place them cut side up in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

8. Second Rising: Let the rolls rise for another 15 minutes. During this time, preheat the oven to 180°C.

9. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden. Check with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the rolls are done.

10. Cooling and Serving: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before removing them from the tray. You can dust them with powdered sugar for a more elegant look or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Practical Tips:
- Cooling: If you have time, let the rolls cool completely on a rack to maintain their fluffy texture.
- Variations: You can add chocolate chips to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. Also, substitute hazelnuts with walnuts or pumpkin seeds for a different crunch.
- Storage: These rolls keep well in an airtight container for 2-3 days, but they are most delicious when eaten fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use plant-based milk?: Yes, you can use almond, soy, or coconut milk for a vegan option. Make sure they are unsweetened to maintain a balanced flavor.
- What drinks pair well with these rolls?: A cup of strong coffee or herbal tea would perfectly complement this dessert. Additionally, a glass of warm milk can be an excellent choice for kids.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
Each serving of chocolate and hazelnut rolls contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. They provide a good source of carbohydrates and healthy fats from hazelnuts, which are rich in protein and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to get cooking! These chocolate and hazelnut rolls will not only delight your taste buds but also bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor the final result!