Whole Wheat Caramel Rolls
Sweet and indulgent whole wheat caramel rolls feature a rich caramel filling and nut topping, perfect for breakfast or dessert, appealing to those who love warm, comforting baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9-inch square pan.
- Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup; level off.
- In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, salt, and yeast; blend well.
- Add milk, water, and shortening; mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 16x12 inches.
- Spread melted margarine or butter over the dough.
- Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the surface, then sprinkle chopped nuts on top.
- Roll up the dough tightly from the short end to form a log.
- Cut the log into 12 equal slices and place them in the prepared pan.
- Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, you can substitute half of the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour. If you prefer a sweeter roll, increase the brown sugar slightly. To save time, consider using pre-made dough from the store. Remember to let the dough rise in a warm environment to ensure it doubles properly. Avoid over-kneading to keep the rolls soft.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a drizzle of icing or a dollop of cream on top for an indulgent treat. These rolls pair beautifully with Creamy Yogurt-Mint Dressing as a refreshing side or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh fruit salad for a delightful breakfast or brunch spread. They also make an excellent dessert option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover caramel rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place rolls in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whole Wheat Caramel Rolls contains roughly 280 calories, with 8g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 668mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, let it rise, then shape and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, allow it to come to room temperature and rise before baking. This makes for a convenient breakfast option without the morning rush.
What can I use instead of shortening?
You can substitute the shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using applesauce or yogurt, keeping in mind this may slightly alter the texture of the rolls.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean if the rolls are fully baked. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).