Cherry rolls

Introduction:
Cherry rolls are a delightful sweet treat that combines soft and fluffy dough with a delicious cherry filling, all topped with a sweet glaze. These irresistible rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a decadent dessert. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee or served as a special treat for family and friends, cherry rolls are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Origin and Cultural Significance:
Cherry rolls are a beloved pastry enjoyed in many cultures around the world. While the exact origin of cherry rolls is unclear, variations of this sweet treat can be found in various European countries, where cherries are a popular fruit in traditional baking. In the United States, cherry rolls are often enjoyed as a breakfast or brunch pastry, particularly during the summer months when cherries are in season. With their soft dough and fruity filling, cherry rolls are a delicious and comforting indulgence that brings joy to any occasion.

Ingredients Quantity:
For the Dough:

  • All-purpose flour: 3 cups
  • Granulated sugar: ¼ cup
  • Active dry yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet)
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Milk: 1 cup, warm
  • Unsalted butter, melted: ½ cup
  • Egg: 1 large

For the Cherry Filling:

  • Cherries, pitted and chopped: 2 cups (fresh or canned)
  • Granulated sugar: ½ cup
  • Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
  • Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

For the Glaze:

  • Powdered sugar: 1 cup
  • Milk: 2-3 tablespoons
  • Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon

Optional Additions:

  • Almond extract for added flavor in the cherry filling
  • Lemon zest for a citrusy twist in the glaze
  • Chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans) for texture in the filling

Instructions:

  1. Preparing the Dough:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
  • Add the melted butter and egg to the yeast mixture, and whisk until well combined.
  • Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
  • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  1. Making the Cherry Filling:
  • In a saucepan, combine the chopped cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the cherries soften, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  1. Assembling the Cherry Rolls:
  • Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface, about ¼ inch thick.
  • Spread the cherry filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  • Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
  1. Slicing and Baking:
  • Using a sharp knife, slice the dough into 12 equal-sized pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space between each roll to allow for rising.
  • Cover the baking dish with a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until they have doubled in size.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  1. Making the Glaze:
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
  1. Glazing and Serving:
  • Remove the cherry rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Tips for Success:

  • Make sure the milk is warm, but not too hot, when activating the yeast to ensure proper fermentation.
  • Use fresh cherries when they are in season for the best flavor, but canned cherries can also be used as a convenient alternative.
  • Customize the glaze by adding additional flavors such as almond extract or lemon zest for a unique twist.
  • Serve the cherry rolls warm for maximum enjoyment, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days and reheated before serving.

Conclusion:
Cherry rolls are a delightful pastry that combines soft and fluffy dough with a sweet and tangy cherry filling, all topped with a creamy glaze. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, cherry rolls are sure to impress with their irresistible flavor and comforting texture. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, cherry rolls are the perfect treat to enjoy with family and friends any time of the year. So roll up your sleeves and indulge in the deliciousness of homemade cherry rolls!

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