Nothing says cozy holidays like the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through the house. If you’re looking to bring a touch of traditional German flavor to your Christmas celebrations this year, then Franzbrötchen must be on your baking list. These delightful German cinnamon rolls are not your average sweet treats. They are filled with warmth and spice, making them the perfect indulgence for this festive season. Get ready to create a batch of Franzbrötchen that will take your holiday baking to the next level!
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**Franzbrötchen German Cinnamon Rolls**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. To the yeast mixture, add the melted butter, sugar, salt, and beaten egg. Mix well.
3. Gradually stir in the flour until the dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
7. Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges.
8. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
9. Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough into a log shape.
10. Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
11. Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 20-30 minutes.
12. Bake the Franzbrötchen in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
13. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack.
14. Dust the warm Franzbrötchen with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy these delicious German cinnamon rolls with a cup of hot cocoa or your favorite festive drink!
Franzbrötchen is a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, breakfast, or simply an indulgent treat to enjoy during the winter months. The combination of sweet cinnamon and nutmeg wrapped in a soft, pillowy dough is sure to warm both your kitchen and your heart. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of these freshly baked rolls fill your home with the magic of the season. Embrace the coziness of the holidays with a batch of homemade Franzbrötchen that will undoubtedly become a cherished tradition in your festive repertoire!
