Homemade rolls with dried apricots

Homemade Apricot Rolls Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12 rolls

Even though we sometimes get caught up in daily hustle, a freshly baked roll can turn any meal into a special moment. I invite you to discover how to prepare delicious homemade rolls, decorated with dried apricots, a perfect choice for a hearty breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack.

Ingredients:
- 500 g all-purpose flour
- 250 ml milk
- 50 g sugar
- 50 g melted butter
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 1 egg
- 100 g dried apricots
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the apricots: Start by chopping the dried apricots into small pieces. Then, place them in a bowl and cover with a little warm milk, letting them soak for 15-20 minutes. This step will add moisture and flavor to your rolls.

2. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the yeast with 50 g of flour and half a cup of warm milk. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the remaining flour, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the yeast mixture, egg, and melted butter. Start mixing the ingredients, gradually adding the remaining milk until you get a smooth dough.

4. Incorporating the apricots: Once the dough becomes elastic and smooth, add the soaked dried apricots. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until the apricots are well integrated. This step adds a sweet note and an interesting texture to your rolls.

5. Rising the dough: Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until the dough doubles in size.

6. Shaping the rolls: After the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces. Shape each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to expand.

7. Second rising: Cover the rolls again with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes until they become fluffy.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom.

9. Serving: Let the rolls cool on a wire rack. You can serve them plain or with butter and jam for a delicious breakfast. Additionally, a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar will make them even more appealing.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to try a healthier version, you can replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour.
- For an even richer taste, you can add a cup of chopped nuts or almonds along with the dried apricots.
- The rolls remain delicious the next day. You can wrap them in aluminum foil to keep them fresh.

These homemade rolls with dried apricots are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or offer them as a snack to friends, they will surely become a favorite in your household!