Tahini-infused cinnamon rolls: A Cypriot twist on a classic treat

Cinnamon rolls with a twist or tahini rolls with Ceylon cinnamon will certainly cause a big stir. The Cypriot twist, which is the addition of tahini paste, will make many people smack their lips in delight. Be sure to try this recipe.

Tahini rolls are a characteristic of Cypriot cuisine and a popular street food there. The fluffy dough contains a sweet filling based on tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, sometimes lightly toasted for a deeper flavour. Cinnamon is a common addition that enhances the aroma of tahini rolls.

Why should you choose Ceylon cinnamon? Ceylon cinnamon is sweeter than the one we know from stores and lighter in a few shades. Additionally, it has a milder and more refined taste. It will work perfectly in tahini rolls, creating a treat reminiscent of the cinnamon rolls we know.

• 2 cups wheat flour,
• 4 tsp instant yeast,
• 1/4 cup sugar (for the dough),
• 1/2 cup milk,
• 2 large eggs,
• 7 tbsp butter,
• A pinch of salt,
• 1 cup tahini sesame paste,
• 1/4 cup sugar (or other sweetener),
• 1 tsp Ceylon cinnamon.

Preparation:

1. Combine the flour, sugar, yeast, warm milk, and eggs. Knead the dough using a kitchen mixer or by hand. Finally, add the salt and chopped butter. Continue kneading for about 6-8 minutes.
2. Leave the kneaded dough to rise for 60 minutes in a warm place, covered.
3. Combine tahini, sugar, and Ceylon cinnamon with a whisk until a uniform mass forms.
4. Knead the risen dough once more (for a few seconds), then shape it into a rectangle (45cm x 35cm) using a rolling pin.
5. Spread the dough with the prepared tahini filling, leaving 2cm uncoated along the longer edge.
6. Roll up the dough into a roll and then cut the roll into 15 smaller pieces.
7. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, place the cinnamon rolls on it, and leave them to rise for 45 minutes, covered.
8. After this time, put the cinnamon rolls in an oven preheated to 190°C for about 20 minutes.
9. Remove the finished cinnamon rolls from the oven and serve with your favourite toppings.