Sesame Rolls (Vegan)

Fluffy crescent rolls with sesame - a fasting delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8 rolls

One of the most delightful pastry recipes I have discovered is for these fluffy crescent rolls with sesame. These treats are not only delicious but also ideal for fasting periods or for those who prefer a lighter breakfast. With a golden crust, a soft interior, and a subtle lemon aroma, these rolls are perfectly paired with a cup of tea or coffee. Let’s embark on this adventure of making these rolls together!

The history of crescent rolls is fascinating, with deep roots in pastry traditions around the world. These fluffy pastries have evolved over the centuries, inspired by various cooking techniques and ingredient combinations. Crescent rolls are a popular choice for breakfast, snacks, or even desserts due to their versatility.

Ingredients

- 600 g flour
- 350 ml water
- 2 tablespoons sugar (plus 1-2 tablespoons for syrup)
- Zest of one lemon
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons oil
- Sesame seeds (for decoration)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. Start by sifting the flour into a deep bowl. This is an essential step as sifting helps aerate the flour, resulting in a fluffier dough.
2. Meanwhile, heat the water with the 2 tablespoons of sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved. It is important to let the syrup cool so that you can hold a finger in it without burning yourself. This detail is crucial as yeast is very sensitive to high temperatures.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the flour with the dry yeast, add the salt, lemon zest, and vanilla sugar. These flavors will give the rolls a unique and refreshing taste.

Step 2: Kneading the dough

1. Once the syrup has cooled, pour the water into the flour mixture along with the 3 tablespoons of oil. Begin kneading the dough with your hands until it becomes smooth and no longer sticks to your hands. You may need to adjust the amount of flour or water depending on the humidity in the air.
2. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm room until it doubles in size. This process takes about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Shaping the rolls

1. After the dough has risen, divide it into 8 equal portions. Each portion will become a fluffy roll.
2. On a wooden board, take each piece of dough and gently knead it, then roll it into a long shape. Fold the dough in half and twist the two strands formed, joining the ends to form a crescent. This shape not only looks good but also helps achieve a more airy texture.
3. Place the shaped rolls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and let them rise again for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Glazing and baking

1. In a saucepan, boil 100 ml of water with 1 tablespoon of sugar and let it cool slightly. This syrup will be used to brush the rolls before baking, giving them an appetizing shine.
2. Brush the risen rolls with the sugar syrup, then sprinkle sesame seeds on top. The sesame not only adds a delicious flavor but also gives an attractive appearance.
3. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) and bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. It is important not to open the oven in the first 20 minutes to allow the dough to rise evenly.

Step 5: Cooling and serving

1. Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a rack. It is essential to cover them with a clean towel to keep them soft and fluffy.
2. These rolls can be served warm or at room temperature, perfect for breakfast or snacks. You can accompany them with jams, honey, or even tahini for a delicious contrast.

Practical tips

- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla essence to the dough.
- Experiment with fillings such as chopped nuts or poppy seeds to add a personal twist to the recipe.
- Store the rolls in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Nutritional information

Each roll has approximately 180-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the size of the portion. These rolls are a good source of carbohydrates, and the sesame adds healthy proteins and fats. Consuming sesame can bring numerous health benefits, including improved heart health and support for the skeletal system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

2. How can I keep the rolls fresh longer?
Store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them, and before consuming, let them thaw at room temperature.

3. Can I add fillings to the rolls?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate, nuts, or cheese fillings for a more decadent version.

Serving suggestions

These fluffy sesame rolls can be perfectly paired with a warm drink, such as herbal tea, a creamy cappuccino, or even a fresh smoothie. They can also be served as part of a festive meal alongside other pastry dishes.

In conclusion, making these rolls is a pleasant activity that adds flavor to everyday life. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you will achieve an impressive result that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. I encourage you to experiment and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 600 g flour, 350 g water, 2 tablespoons sugar + 1-2 tablespoons for syrup, grated lemon peel, 1 packet vanilla sugar, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 packet dry yeast, 3 tablespoons oil, sesame

 Tags:  sesame rolls (vegan) horns susan post fasting doughs twisted pretzels