Custard-Filled Sweet Rolls with Almond Flakes

These Custard-Filled Sweet Rolls with Almond Flakes are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. The combination of a soft, buttery dough filled with creamy custard and topped with crunchy almond flakes makes them irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Custard:

500ml (2 cups) Milk
2 Eggs
100g (1/2 cup) Sugar
30g (3 1/2 tbsp) Cornstarch
A pinch of salt
2 tsp Vanilla

For the Dough:

200ml (1 cup) Warm Milk
1 tbsp Yeast
100g (1/2 cup) Sugar
1 tsp Vanilla
2 Eggs
90g (1 cup) Butter, softened at room temperature
600g (about 4-5 cups) Plain flour

For the Topping:

1 Egg yolk + 3 tbsp Milk (for egg wash)
Almond flakes

Directions

1. Make the Custard:

Beat the 2 eggs in a bowl.
In a pot, combine 2 cups of milk, beaten eggs, 1/2 cup of sugar, 3 1/2 tablespoons of cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla.
Whisk well and turn on the heat. Continuously whisk until the mixture thickens to a custard consistency.
Once thickened, transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it cool. Set aside.

2. Make the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk, 1 tablespoon of yeast, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, 2 eggs, 1 cup of softened butter, and plain flour.
Mix with a fork until a dough forms, then use your hands to knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth.
Shape the dough into a ball, cover, and let it rest for 1 hour.
After an hour, transfer the dough to a floured work surface and flatten it using a rolling pin into a rectangular shape, ensuring it’s not too thin.

3. Assemble the Rolls:

Spread the cooled custard evenly over the dough.
Roll the dough tightly from the bottom to form a log.
Butter a muffin pan. Cut the dough log into equal pieces using floss or a sharp knife.
Place the rolls into the muffin pan, leaving space between them. Cover and let them rest for 15-20 minutes.

4. Bake the Rolls:

Preheat the oven to 356°F (180°C).
Brush the tops of the rolls with egg wash (a mixture of egg yolk and milk) and sprinkle with almond flakes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

5. Serve:

Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy these delicious custard-filled sweet rolls warm, with a hot beverage of your choice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea.
Dust with powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch.
Pair with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.

Cooking Tips

Ensure the custard is fully cooled before spreading it on the dough to prevent it from leaking out during baking.
Use a floss or a sharp knife to cut the dough evenly without squishing the rolls.
Let the dough rest adequately to ensure it rises properly and becomes fluffy.

Nutritional Benefits

High in Protein: Eggs and milk provide a good source of protein.
Rich in Calcium: The milk and butter contribute to the calcium content.
Energy-Boosting Carbohydrates: Flour and sugar provide quick energy.

Dietary Information

Vegetarian
Nut-Free Option: Omit the almond flakes if needed.

Nutritional Facts (per roll, approx. 1 roll)

Calories: 280 kcal
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 2g

Storage

Refrigerate: Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: These rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Reheat: Reheat in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 5-10 minutes or in a microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Indulgent and Comforting: Perfect for special occasions or a cozy breakfast.
Rich and Creamy: The homemade custard filling adds a luxurious touch.
Family Favorite: A recipe that’s sure to be loved by both kids and adults.

Conclusion

These Custard-Filled Sweet Rolls with Almond Flakes are a delightful treat that combines the richness of custard with the soft, buttery goodness of homemade dough. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these rolls are sure to impress with their delicious flavor and beautiful presentation. Enjoy baking and indulging in this sweet, comforting treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of flour?
- Yes, you can use bread flour for a chewier texture or whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
How do I ensure the custard doesn’t leak?
- Make sure the custard is thick and fully cooled before spreading it on the dough.
Can I use a different filling instead of custard?
- Yes, you can use chocolate spread, fruit preserves, or cream cheese as alternatives.
What if I don’t have almond flakes?
- You can omit the almond flakes or substitute with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.
Can I make these rolls gluten-free?
- You can try using a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Can I add fruit to the filling?
- Yes, adding dried fruits like raisins or fresh berries can enhance the flavor.
What if my dough doesn’t rise?
- Ensure your yeast is fresh and the dough is kept in a warm place to rise.
Can I double the recipe?
- Yes, you can double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Adjust the baking time as needed.