Apulian-style Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredients

In this Apulian adaptation of Cinnamon Rolls, we incorporate Apulian flavors and ingredients to create a distinct twist. The traditional American cinnamon filling is enhanced with the addition of ground almonds, which adds a subtle nuttiness to the rolls. The glaze is infused with citrus flavors, such as lemon or orange, to give it a refreshing Mediterranean touch. These modifications elevate the classic cinnamon rolls to a whole new level, infusing them with the essence of Apulian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Cinnamon Rolls, so you can check it out.

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (7g) instant yeast 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) ground almonds 1/4 cup (30g) ground almonds
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• For the glaze: For the glaze:
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) freshly squeezed lemon or orange juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) freshly squeezed lemon or orange juice
• Zest of 1 lemon or orange Zest of 1 lemon or orange

Nutrition

• Calories: 280 kcal / 1170 KJ
• Fat: 9g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 46g (Sugars: 22g)
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
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 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 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling by combining the brown sugar, ground almonds, softened butter, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
7. 7.
   Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle shape on a floured surface.
8. 8.
   Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. 9.
   Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
10. 10.
    Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in a greased baking dish.
11. 11.
    Cover the dish with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes.
12. 12.
    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
13. 13.
    Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
14. 14.
    While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon or orange juice, and zest until smooth.
15. 15.
    Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
16. 16.
    Drizzle the citrus glaze over the warm rolls.
17. 17.
    Serve the Apulian-style Cinnamon Rolls warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to use ground almonds for the filling. If you can't find ground almonds, you can grind whole almonds in a food processor until finely ground.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more Apulian touch, sprinkle some finely chopped candied orange peel over the filling before rolling up the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a teaspoon of honey to the powdered sugar mixture.
• These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm, so reheat any leftovers in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
• If you want to make the rolls in advance, you can freeze them after baking and glazing. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
• Experiment with different citrus flavors by using lime or grapefruit juice and zest in the glaze.

Serving advice

Serve the Apulian-style Cinnamon Rolls warm for breakfast or as a delightful dessert. They pair perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cinnamon rolls on a serving platter, drizzle the glaze over them, and garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Serve them individually or stacked in a beautiful tower for an impressive presentation.