Prairie Sugar Swirl
Introduction to Prairie Sugar Swirl
The Prairie Sugar Swirl is a delightful pastry that hails from the sprawling plains of the Midwest United States. Rooted in the tradition of resourcefulness and simplicity, this delectable treat has been a staple in farmhouse kitchens for generations. Known for its rich, buttery dough and sweet, cinnamon-sugar filling, the Prairie Sugar Swirl offers a taste of country comfort with every bite. Its origins can be traced back to early settlers who adapted their European recipes with the ingredients available locally, like flour and butter from nearby farms. Over the years, it has become a beloved dessert, often shared at family gatherings and local fairs.
Ingredients for Prairie Sugar Swirl
- Flour - 3 cups, all-purpose
- Butter - 1 cup, unsalted and softened
- Sugar - 1 cup, granulated
- Milk - 1 cup, whole
- Yeast - 1 packet, active dry
- Egg - 1, large
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Cinnamon - 2 tablespoons, ground
- Brown Sugar - 1/2 cup, packed
- Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and beat until well combined. Slowly add the flour, salt, and the yeast mixture, mixing until a dough begins to form.
Step 2: Knead and Rise
Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the filling. Mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of butter until well combined.
Complete Cooking Process
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.
Step 5: Form the Swirl
Starting at one long end of the rectangle, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them cut side up in a greased baking pan.
Step 6: Final Rise and Baking
Cover the pan with a damp cloth and let the rolls rise again until nearly doubled, about 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Check the temperature if needed with a cooking timer to ensure consistent baking.
Enjoying Your Prairie Sugar Swirl
Allow the swirls to cool slightly before icing or serving. Some prefer a simple vanilla glaze, made by combining vanilla extract and powdered sugar, drizzled over the top for added sweetness. Serve the Prairie Sugar Swirl warm with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the perfect complement of flavors. These swirls are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert indulgence. Enjoy the classic taste, reminiscent of simpler times, with every bite of this homemade treat.