Kanelu Pīrāgi

Introduction to Kanelu Pīrāgi

Kanelu Pīrāgi is a delightful Latvian pastry that encapsulates the essence of traditional baking. These aromatic cinnamon rolls are a popular treat during festive occasions and are cherished for their rich flavor and comforting aroma. The name 'Kanelu Pīrāgi' directly translates to 'Cinnamon Rolls' in English, with its roots firmly planted in Latvia.

Historically, Kanelu Pīrāgi has been associated with celebratory events, where families would gather to enjoy these sweet pastries. Over time, as trade flourished, cinnamon became an accessible spice, contributing significantly to the popularity of these rolls. Today, they are a staple in many Latvian bakeries and homes, often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.

Ingredients

• All-purpose Flour - 500g
• Milk - 250ml
• Butter - 100g
• Sugar - 150g
• Cinnamon - 2 tablespoons
• Active Dry Yeast - 10g
• Egg - 2
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

1. Warm the Milk to about 37°C - make sure it is not too hot to prevent killing the Yeast.
2. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk with 1 tablespoon of Sugar and the Yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
3. Melt the Butter and set it aside to cool slightly.
4. In another bowl, mix the Flour and Salt. Gradually add this mixture into the yeast mixture.
5. Add the melted Butter, one Egg, and Vanilla Extract to the dough. Mix until you have a smooth and elastic dough.
6. Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Assembling the Rolls

1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
2. Spread softened Butter over the dough.
3. Mix the remaining Sugar with the Cinnamon and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
4. Tightly roll the dough into a log and cut it into slices about 2-3 cm thick.

Cooking Process

Baking the Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Place the slices in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them to allow for expansion.
3. Beat the remaining Egg and brush over the rolls for a golden finish.
4. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Set a timer to keep track of the baking time.

Enjoying Kanelu Pīrāgi

Allow the Kanelu Pīrāgi to cool slightly before serving. These rolls are best enjoyed warm, where the Cinnamon aroma is most pronounced and the texture is luxuriously soft. Pair them with a hot beverage, such as Coffee or Tea, for a perfect treat. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, Kanelu Pīrāgi is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and warmth expectations.