Indulging in freshly baked, sugar-coated yeast dough pastries is a timeless pleasure that transcends cultures and generations. These fluffy, sweet treats, with their delicate caramelized sugar crust and soft, airy interior, are perfect companions to your morning coffee or afternoon tea. Crafting these pastries at home is a rewarding experience, allowing you to enjoy them at their freshest while customizing flavors to your preference.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¼ cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- ¾ cup warm milkmomsdish.com
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperaturetaraobrady.com+3sugargeekshow.com+3chocolatewithgrace.com+3
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- For the Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Optional: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or cardamom for added flavor
Instructions:
- Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the eggs and the activated yeast mixture to the bowl, mixing well to combine.
- Gradually incorporate the flour, one cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough:
- Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment on medium speed for 5-7 minutes.
- First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Pastries:
- Punch down the risen dough to release air.
- Divide the dough into equal portions, depending on your desired pastry size (typically 12-16 pieces).
- Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disc.
- Second Rise:
- Place the shaped dough pieces onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar with the optional ground cinnamon or cardamom.
- Bake the Pastries:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the risen pastries for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Coat with Sugar:
- While the pastries are still warm, brush them lightly with melted butter.
- Immediately roll each pastry in the sugar mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the pastries warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
Variations and Tips:
- Fillings: Before the second rise, consider filling the pastries with sweetened cream cheese, fruit preserves, or chocolate for added indulgence.
- Glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled pastries for extra sweetness and visual appeal.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly in the oven to refresh their softness.
Cultural Connections:
Sugar-coated yeast dough pastries are cherished in various cultures, each offering unique twists:
- Kürtőskalács: Known as chimney cakes, these Hungarian pastries are made by wrapping yeast dough around a cylindrical spit, coating in sugar, and baking over an open flame until caramelized. Wikipedia
- Kouign-Amann: Originating from Brittany, France, this pastry involves folding sugar and butter into a yeast dough, resulting in a caramelized, layered treat. Wikipedia
- Krofne: Popular in the Balkans, these are filled doughnuts made from yeast dough, often dusted with powdered sugar. Wikipedia
Conclusion:
Baking sugar-coated yeast dough pastries at home is a delightful endeavor that yields soft, sweet treats perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate this classic pastry, customizing it to your taste and sharing the joy of homemade goodness with family and friends.
For a visual guide on preparing sweet yeast dough, you might find this video helpful: