Sweet Dough Rolls

Ingredients

• 4 cups All-purpose flour (Approximately, more may be needed for kneading)
• 0.25 cup Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 Large egg
• 1 Large egg yolk
• 0.125 teaspoon Ground mace (Or 1/2 teaspoon lemon extract or zest of 1 lemon)
• 0.25 cup Unsalted butter (Melted)
• 1 cup Milk
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 0.25 cup Unsalted butter (For filling, softened)

Instructions

1. 1Scald the milk in a saucepan or microwave. Let cool until lukewarm (about 110°F or 43°C). Add the yeast to the lukewarm milk and let stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates the yeast is active.
2. 2In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of flour with the proofed yeast mixture. Beat well with a wooden spoon or electric mixer until smooth. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
3. 3To the risen sponge, add the sugar, salt, egg, egg yolk, mace (or lemon extract/zest), and melted butter. Mix well to combine.
4. 4Gradually add the remaining flour (about 2 cups), mixing until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed to prevent sticking.
5. 5Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. 6Punch down the risen dough to release the air. Divide the dough in half. For rolls: Shape into individual rolls and place in a greased baking pan. For jelly roll style: Roll one half of the dough into a long strip about 1/4 inch thick. Spread with softened butter. Roll up tightly like a jelly roll. Cut into 1-inch thick slices. Place slices in a greased baking pan, flat side down.
7. 7Cover the shaped rolls or jelly roll slices with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
8. 8Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.