Maple Glazed Challah Rolls

This maple glazed challah roll recipe transforms ordinary bread into a heavenly treat that will make your home smell like a bakery. The soft, pillowy texture combined with the sweet maple glaze creates an irresistible combination that has become my signature contribution at family gatherings.

I first created these rolls for Rosh Hashanah when I wanted something special to serve alongside our holiday meal. The maple symbolizes the sweetness we hope for in the new year, and now my family requests these rolls for every special occasion.

Ingredients

• Rapid rise yeast packages: Accelerate the rising process and make these rolls foolproof
• Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness without being overwhelming
• Bread flour: Creates the perfect chewy texture that challah is known for
• Maple extract: Intensifies the flavor without adding excess moisture
• Raw sugar: Provides a delightful crunch on top of the finished rolls
• Butter: Adds richness that elevates these rolls from good to exceptional

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the dough:

Combine water, yeast, syrup, sugar, eggs, butter, and maple extract in your mixer with the dough hook. This forms the wet base of your dough, incorporating all the flavor components evenly.

Mix in flour gradually:

Add about 4 cups of flour mixed with salt to your wet ingredients, mixing until it begins to form around the hook. Then add another cup, continuing until the dough comes together. The gradual addition prevents flour clouds and ensures even hydration.

Knead to perfection:

Turn dough onto a floured surface and incorporate remaining flour until smooth and elastic. The dough should feel springy but not sticky. Proper kneading develops the gluten structure that gives challah its signature texture.

First rise:

Place dough in a greased bowl in a warm spot for about 2 hours. The dough needs this time to double in size, developing flavor and that airy interior texture.

Shape the rolls:

After punching down the risen dough, divide and shape into rolls. Place them in greased muffin pans for uniform sizing and beautiful presentation.

Second rise and egg wash:

Let shaped rolls rise for 20 minutes, then brush with egg yolk mixture and sprinkle with raw sugar. This short second rise allows the rolls to become light while the egg wash creates that signature challah shine.

Bake to golden perfection:

Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until golden and hollow sounding when tapped. The moderate temperature ensures the rolls cook evenly without burning.

Apply the maple glaze:

Brush warm rolls with maple syrup, allowing it to soak in slightly. This final touch adds a subtle sweetness that makes these rolls extraordinary.

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My favorite part of making these rolls is watching my children's faces light up when the sweet aroma fills our home. My daughter always steals a roll straight from the cooling rack, unable to wait until dinner. These moments make the baking process so worthwhile.

Make Ahead Tips

These rolls freeze beautifully after baking. Simply cool completely, place in freezer bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm briefly in a 300°F oven before serving. For maximum freshness, apply the maple glaze after reheating rather than before freezing.

Variations Worth Trying

Transform these rolls by adding different flavor elements. Cinnamon mixed into the dough creates a breakfast roll perfect with coffee. Rosemary and sea salt provide a savory variation that pairs beautifully with dinner. For special occasions, fold in dried cranberries or raisins before shaping for jewel-like bursts of flavor in each bite.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these rolls warm with the maple butter for a transcendent experience. They make an exceptional accompaniment to autumn soups like butternut squash or split pea. For brunch, slice in half and use as the base for mini breakfast sandwiches with egg and cheese. During holidays, place in a cloth-lined basket at the center of your table for guests to help themselves.

The Cultural Significance

Challah holds deep significance in Jewish tradition, typically served on Shabbat and holidays. The egg-enriched dough represents celebration and abundance. While traditional challah is often braided, these rolls maintain the same rich flavor and texture in an approachable form that welcomes everyone to the table. The maple glaze adds a North American twist to this beloved bread tradition.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make the dough softer?

Ensure the dough is well-kneaded until it becomes smooth, elastic, and springy. Avoid adding too much flour to keep it soft.

→ Can I use regular yeast instead of rapid rise yeast?

Yes, but increase the rising time to allow the dough to double in size, as regular yeast takes longer to activate.

→ How do I make the maple butter?

Mix softened butter with maple syrup using a whisk or mixer until smooth, then refrigerate until needed.

→ What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can substitute honey or agave syrup, but the flavor profile will differ slightly from the original.

→ How do I prevent the rolls from being too dense?

Avoid over-kneading and ensure the dough rises fully at each stage. Also, check the freshness of your yeast.

→ Can I freeze the rolls?

Yes, bake and cool the rolls completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to two months. Reheat before serving.