Ingredients
Dough Ingredients (Makes ~1200 grams, 12 rolls)
Instructions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine *1 egg* and *1 egg white* with both types of *sugar* and the *salt*. Mix until well blended.
Slowly add the *heavy cream* or *sour cream* along with the *pumpkin puree*. Stir until incorporated.
Sift together the flour and *instant dry yeast*. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Add the *vegetable oil* to the dough and knead by hand or with a stand mixer until smooth.
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Step 2
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a floured surface.
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it slightly.
Place a generous *spoonful of the poppy seed filling* in the center of each flattened dough piece.
Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside, then roll gently to form a round roll.
Step 3
Place the filled rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
Mix the *egg yolk* with the *strong sweet tea*, and brush the tops of the rolls with this mixture.
Step 4
Preheat your oven to *180°C (350°F)*.
Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Servings
These pumpkin rolls are a delightful addition to any meal and offer a versatile array of serving possibilities.
Breakfast Bliss ☀️: Start your day with a warm pumpkin roll, paired with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Add a dollop of cream cheese spread for an extra touch of indulgence. It is a breakfast that will make getting out of bed just a little bit easier.
Afternoon Delight 🌼: Perfect for an afternoon tea or coffee break, especially when accompanied by some fresh fruit or a light salad. It’s a balanced snack that keeps you satisfied until dinner.
Dazzle at Dinner 🕯️: Serve these rolls as a side dish at dinner parties or holiday feasts. They pair beautifully with savory meats or a hearty stew, bringing both warmth and sweetness to the table.
Equipment
A good quality mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients. Make sure it’s large enough to hold everything without spilling.
Use a flexible spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl and ensure every bit of batter gets into your rolls.
A non-stick baking sheet will be your best friend for these rolls. Consider lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
If you want to get precise with your filling, a piping bag makes the job a breeze. You can also use a spoon if you don’t have one on hand.
Essential for that final touch! Use a brush to apply the sweet tea glaze for a golden, shiny finish.
Variations
For those seeking healthier or specific dietary options, we’ve got you covered!
Gluten-Free Goodness 🌾: Swap out regular wheat flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Almond flour works well for extra fluffiness, but adjust the quantity as it might absorb more or less moisture.
Vegan Vibes 🌱: Substitute the egg with a flax egg—just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it becomes gelatinous. Replace the cream with coconut cream for that creamy texture, and use plant-based margarine instead of butter.
Faq
- Why did my rolls not rise properly?
This is a common issue for beginners. Ensure your yeast is fresh and not expired. Also, make sure your liquids are at the right temperature—too hot or too cold can hinder yeast activity.
- How can I achieve a uniform size for my rolls?
For beginners, it can be a challenge to make each roll the same size. Use a kitchen scale to weigh the dough, ensuring each portion is similar before rolling.
- How do I prevent the rolls from becoming too dry?
Intermediate bakers often face this problem. Ensure you do not overbake them. Also, try adding a moist filling or lightly misting them with water before baking.
- Can I prep the dough in advance?
Yes, you can! Intermediate chefs often let the dough rise overnight in the fridge. This can enhance the flavor and make baking fresher, softer rolls easier.
- What’s the best way to store leftover rolls?
Experienced bakers know that keeping baked goods fresh can be tricky. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them after baking and just reheat them as needed.
- How can I add my twist to the recipe?
Once you're comfortable with the basics, experiment with different fillings or sprinkle some seeds like sesame or poppy seeds on top before baking for an extra crunch and flavor.