Ružice - Croatian Sweet Crescent Rolls

Ingredients

• 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 teaspoon active dry yeast 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup (60g) ground walnuts 1/2 cup (60g) ground walnuts
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat: 10g (6g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 28g (12g sugars)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. 3.
   Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the yeast mixture.
4. 4.
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. 6.
   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.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   In a small bowl, mix together the ground walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon for the filling.
9. 9.
   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal portions.
10. 10.
    Roll each portion into a thin triangle shape.
11. 11.
    Sprinkle the walnut filling evenly over each triangle, leaving a small border around the edges.
12. 12.
    Starting from the wide end, roll up each triangle towards the pointed end, forming a crescent shape.
13. 13.
    Place the crescent rolls on the prepared baking sheet and let them rise for an additional 15 minutes.
14. 14.
    Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
15. 15.
    Allow the Ružice to cool slightly before dusting them with powdered sugar.
16. 16.
    Serve warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Walnuts — Ensure the walnuts are finely ground to achieve a smooth and even texture in the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of sweetness, brush the warm Ružice with a light sugar syrup after baking.
• Experiment with different fillings such as poppy seeds or Nutella for a unique twist.
• Make sure the dough is rolled thin enough to achieve a delicate and flaky texture.
• Serve Ružice with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a perfect pairing.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve Ružice warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful afternoon treat. Enjoy them on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of indulgence.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Ružice on a beautiful platter, dusted with powdered sugar. Their golden color and crescent shape make for an eye-catching display. Consider adding a sprig of fresh mint or a few berries for a pop of color.