Step 2: Shape the Rolls
- Punch the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles. This helps ensure the rolls have a nice, even texture when baked.
- Divide the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, shaping them into soft, round rolls.
- Arrange in the Pan: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and place the rolls inside, leaving a little space between each roll. For a pull-apart effect, you can arrange them so they’re slightly touching each other.
Step 3: Let the Rolls Rise Again
- Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until they have puffed up and are touching each other in the pan. This second rise is what helps make the rolls soft and fluffy.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s fully heated when you bake the rolls.
- Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. The smell will be heavenly! You can check for doneness by gently pressing a roll—it should spring back.
Step 5: Make the Vanilla Syrup
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Stir over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved completely, creating a smooth syrup.
- Simmer: Bring the syrup to a gentle simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened. This will add the right consistency to coat the rolls.
- Brush the Rolls: Once the rolls are out of the oven, immediately brush them generously with the vanilla syrup. This helps the rolls stay moist while adding extra flavor.
Step 6: Glaze the Rolls (Optional)
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and milk (or water) to make a smooth glaze. The glaze should be runny but not too thin. Adjust the consistency with more sugar or milk if necessary.
- Drizzle: Drizzle the glaze over the rolls while they’re still warm for a shiny, sweet finish.
Tips for Perfecting Your Rolls
- Perfect the Kneading: Kneading the dough properly is essential to getting the right texture. If you use a stand mixer, make sure the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl but remains soft.
- Ensure the Right Temperature: Yeast needs a warm environment to rise properly. Make sure your milk isn’t too hot when activating the yeast—ideally, it should feel like a warm bath on your finger. Too hot will kill the yeast.
- Let the Dough Rest: Don’t rush the rising process. Allow the dough to rest fully so it can develop the right texture and flavor.
- Keep the Rolls Soft: When brushing with the vanilla syrup, do so while the rolls are hot to ensure the syrup is absorbed for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Serve Warm: These rolls are best served fresh from the oven or slightly reheated. The texture and flavor are at their peak when enjoyed right away.
Serving Suggestions
These Vanilla Pan de Mallorca Rolls are ideal for breakfast, a sweet snack, or even as a dessert. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. You can enjoy them on their own or serve them with fresh fruit preserves, whipped cream, or a dollop of ice cream for a special treat.
For a decadent breakfast, spread a little butter on the rolls while they’re still warm, or drizzle extra syrup over the top for added sweetness. These rolls also make an excellent choice for brunch, family gatherings, or a cozy evening in.
Conclusion
These Vanilla Pan de Mallorca Rolls with a Hungarian twist combine the best of both culinary traditions. The soft, fluffy texture of the rolls, enhanced by the rich vanilla syrup and optional glaze, make them irresistible. With their delicate sweetness and comforting consistency, these rolls are sure to be a hit at any occasion.
Give them a try—whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just a sweet treat for the family. The process may take a little time, but the result will be a batch of melt-in-your-mouth rolls that everyone will adore.