Black Sesame Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have infused the traditional Chinese ingredient of black sesame into the classic Midwestern American cinnamon rolls. The addition of black sesame paste and seeds gives a distinct nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the rolls. The cream cheese glaze is a popular choice in Midwestern American cuisine and complements the black sesame perfectly. We alse have the original recipe for Black Sesame Roll, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast 1 teaspoon (5g) instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1/2 cup (120g) black sesame paste 1/2 cup (120g) black sesame paste
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (7g) ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon (7g) ground cinnamon
• For the cream cheese glaze: For the cream cheese glaze:
• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
• For topping: For topping:
• 2 tablespoons (14g) black sesame seeds 2 tablespoons (14g) black sesame seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 16g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg.
3. 3.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a baking dish.
7. 7.
   Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle shape on a floured surface.
8. 8.
   Spread the black sesame paste evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. 9.
   Sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon over the black sesame paste.
10. 10.
    Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log shape.
11. 11.
    Cut the log into 12 equal-sized rolls and place them in the greased baking dish.
12. 12.
    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown.
13. 13.
    While the rolls are baking, prepare the cream cheese glaze by beating the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
14. 14.
    Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
15. 15.
    Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls and sprinkle with black sesame seeds.
16. 16.
    Serve the Black Sesame Cinnamon Rolls warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Black sesame paste — Ensure you use a high-quality black sesame paste for the best flavor. If unavailable, you can make your own by toasting black sesame seeds and blending them with a little oil until smooth.
• Cream cheese — Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before preparing the glaze to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Black sesame seeds — Toast the black sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant before using them as a topping for enhanced flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of ground cardamom or ginger to the black sesame filling.
• If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese glaze.
• These rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
• If you want to make the rolls ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.
• Feel free to customize the filling by adding chopped nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Black Sesame Cinnamon Rolls warm for the best experience. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert. Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or tea to complete the indulgence.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Black Sesame Cinnamon Rolls on a serving platter, drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over them, and sprinkle with black sesame seeds. The contrast of the golden rolls, creamy glaze, and black sesame seeds will make them visually appealing.