Mini sweet breads

Mini Nut and Chocolate Sweet Rolls

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of freshly baked sweet rolls? They are a traditional delicacy, often associated with celebrations and joyful moments. Mini sweet rolls are the cuter, easier-to-serve versions of the classic sweet roll. This recipe will not only bring you a delicious dessert but also a satisfying experience, as making them is a true art. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, with coffee among friends, or as a dessert after dinner, these mini sweet rolls filled with nuts and chocolate will surely be a hit.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 12 mini sweet rolls

Ingredients:
- 1 cup of lukewarm milk (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (25 g)
- 1 cup of sugar (approximately 200 g)
- 3 egg yolks
- Grated zest and juice of one lemon
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of oil (approximately 250 ml)
- Flour as needed (approximately 600-800 g, depending on humidity)
- Filling:
- 200 g ground nuts
- 100 g chocolate (preferably dark)
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil
- 100 g raisins (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dough: Start by dissolving the yeast and sugar in the lukewarm milk. Make sure the milk is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast. Gently mix and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. Activated yeast is key to a fluffy dough, so don’t skip this step.

2. Adding wet ingredients: To the milk mixture, add the egg yolks, grated lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

3. Incorporating flour: Start adding flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or by hand, until the dough becomes more consistent and manageable. It’s normal for the dough to be sticky at first, but don’t worry, we will add the oil later.

4. Kneading the dough: When the dough starts to take shape, add the oil and continue kneading. Knead the dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. A useful trick is to use a little flour on the work surfaces, but don’t overdo it to avoid altering the dough's texture.

5. Resting the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place until it doubles in size (about 1 hour).

6. Preparing the filling: While the dough is rising, you can prepare the filling. Chop the nuts and chocolate, then mix them with the oil and, optionally, the raisins. Make sure the filling is well combined and easy to spread.

7. Shaping the mini sweet rolls: After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Each part is then divided into 6 smaller pieces, yielding 12 mini sweet rolls. Flatten each piece of dough and place a tablespoon of filling in the center. Wrap the dough around the filling, forming small balls.

8. Second rising: Place the mini sweet rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them. Cover them again and let them rise for another 30 minutes, during which they will puff up nicely.

9. Preparing for baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Beat an egg and brush each mini sweet roll with a pastry brush, then sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a crunchy appearance and delicious aroma.

10. Baking: Bake the mini sweet rolls for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and pass the toothpick test (inserting a toothpick in the center should come out clean).

11. Cooling and serving: After removing them from the oven, let them cool on a rack. They can be served warm or at room temperature, alongside a cup of warm milk or tea.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different fillings, such as cocoa, jams, or even sweet cheese, to vary the recipe you prepare.
- Make sure the yeast is fresh and active; check the expiration date before use.
- If you don’t have time to wait for the dough to rise, you can use a quick rising method: preheat the oven to 50°C, then turn it off and leave the dough inside, covered, to rise.

Nutritional benefits:
These mini sweet rolls are a source of carbohydrates from the flour, proteins from the eggs, and healthy fats from the oil used. The nuts and chocolate provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a healthier choice than many other processed desserts.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. Use about 7 g (one packet) and follow the same steps.

2. Can I freeze the mini sweet rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the mini sweet rolls after they have completely cooled. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

3. What drinks pair well with the mini sweet rolls?
These mini sweet rolls pair perfectly with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of warm milk.

Enjoy the cooking process and every bite of these delicious mini sweet rolls! Each step is an opportunity to create sweet memories with your loved ones.