Boulou Sweet French Tunisian Rolls Recipe

Indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of Boulou, traditional sweet rolls from French Tunisia! This recipe, easily made with a stand mixer or by hand, guides you through creating these delightful treats. The fluffy dough, studded with fennel seeds, sesame seeds, and raisins, is brushed with a honey-egg glaze for a golden-brown finish. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special occasion, these rolls are a true culinary delight.

Prep Time 135 mins
Cook Time 205 mins
Calories 465.2 kcal
Protein 17g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Boulou Sweet French Tunisian Rolls 56

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Boulou Sweet French Tunisian Rolls

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How to Make Boulou Sweet French Tunisian Rolls

  1. In a small bowl, activate the yeast: combine 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/4 cup (60ml) warm water, and 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast. Let stand until foamy (5-10 minutes).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together: 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil, 1 tablespoon rosewater or orange blossom water, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 3/4 cup (180ml) warm water, and 1 teaspoon salt.
  3. In a stand mixer bowl fitted with a dough hook, combine: 4 1/2 cups (570g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon fennel seeds, 3 tablespoons sesame seeds, 1/2 cup (60g) raisins, and the zest of 1 orange.
  4. Mix briefly to combine dry ingredients.
  5. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and the wet ingredient mixture.
  6. Mix on medium-low speed, gradually adding more flour if needed, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Stop to scrape down the sides as needed.
  7. The dough should be slightly sticky. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5 minutes until elastic.
  8. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 1/2 hours).
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  10. Gently punch down the dough and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  11. Divide the dough into 12-14 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 3-inch oval.
  12. Place ovals onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 1/2-2 inches between each.
  13. In a small bowl, whisk together: 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon honey.
  14. Brush the egg wash over the ovals.
  15. Sprinkle with remaining sesame seeds and 1 teaspoon nigella seeds.
  16. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for 15-20 minutes.
  17. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

8 g

Sugar

166g

Fat

7g

Carbs

29g

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