Picardie rolls, known as “rouleaux de Picardie,” are a traditional French pastry hailing from the Picardy region. These delicate, rolled pastries are a testament to classic French cuisine, blending a light, flaky texture with a rich, buttery flavor.
Ingredients:
To create perfect Picardie rolls, gather the following ingredients:
250g allpurpose flour
125g unsalted butter, softened
75ml warm milk
1 tablespoon sugar
1 packet of active dry yeast (7g)
A pinch of salt
Egg wash (1 egg beaten with a splash of milk)
Preparation:
1. Activation of Yeast: Begin by dissolving the yeast in warm milk along with a teaspoon of sugar. Allow it to activate for about 10 minutes until frothy.
2. Making the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Kneading: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for approximately 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Shape it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Rolling the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle, about ½ cm thick. Cut the rectangle into strips of desired width.
5. Shaping the Rolls: Roll each strip tightly to form a cylindrical shape. The tighter the roll, the better the texture. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Second Rise: Cover the rolls with a clean cloth and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
7. Egg Wash: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the top of each roll with the egg wash for a golden finish.
8. Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for about 1520 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Serving Suggestions:
Picardie rolls can be enjoyed warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or served alongside a rich chocolate sauce for dipping. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them a delightful treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
The charm of Picardie rolls lies in their simplicity and the balance of flavors, a true reflection of the sophistication of French culinary tradition. Each bite takes you on a journey to the picturesque countryside of Picardy, celebrating the artistry behind this classic pastry.