FAQ
Dig into these Jam Donut Pull Apart Challah Rolls, a fluffy, jam-filled treat perfect for Hannukah or any celebration! Combining the fluffy texture of challah bread with the sweet flavor of jam-filled donuts, this recipe offers a festive, shareable twist on classic flavors.
At just 89 calories per serving, these rolls are perfect for those looking to enjoy a special treat while sticking to a weight loss plan. With a harmonious blend of soft dough, sweet strawberry jam and a cinnamon-sugar finish, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor and texture. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot on your holiday table and how you can make it your own.
Perfect for Hanukkah Celebrations
Inspired by traditional Hanukkah treats like sufganiyot (jelly-filled donuts) and challah bread, these Jam Donut Pull-Apart Challah Rolls offer a creative twist with a healthier touch.
Baked to golden perfection instead of fried, they provide a lighter, yet equally delicious, addition to your festive table. The pull-apart design adds a playful, shareable element, making them the perfect centerpiece for celebrating the joy of togetherness during the holiday season.
Making Jam Donut Pull Apart Challah Rolls
The process of making these rolls is as enjoyable as the end result. It begins with a simple yeast dough made from a combination of all-purpose and white whole wheat flours. The whole wheat flour adds a subtle nuttiness and extra fiber, while the all-purpose flour ensures the dough remains light and fluffy.
Once the dough has risen to perfection, it’s divided into small portions, each filled with a dollop of sweet strawberry jam. After being sealed and rolled into smooth balls, the dough is arranged in a round baking tin. Brushed with canola oil and sprinkled with a cinnamon-sugar mix, the rolls are baked until golden brown, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Tips for Serving and Pairing
These rolls are versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways:
- Serve Warm: Fresh out of the oven, the warm rolls with gooey jam centers are utterly irresistible. Pair them with a steaming cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
- Add Festive Touches: For Hanukkah, serve these alongside traditional dishes like brisket or latkes. They’re also a lovely addition to a dessert platter featuring rugelach and chocolate gelt.
- Breakfast or Brunch: These rolls make an indulgent yet light breakfast option. Serve them with fresh fruit and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a balanced start to your day.
Customizing Your Challah Rolls
One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are a few ideas to make these rolls your own:
- Jam Flavors: Swap out strawberry jam for raspberry, apricot or even a rich chocolate spread for a decadent variation.
- Dough Shapes: Instead of pull-apart rolls, you could shape the dough into individual buns or even a braided loaf filled with jam.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon-sugar topping for a unique flavor twist.
- Toppings: After baking, drizzle the rolls with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra touch of sweetness.
Seasonal and Nutritional Highlights
These rolls are not only festive but also lighter than many traditional desserts. With 89 calories per serving, they’re a guilt-free way to enjoy the holiday season. The inclusion of white whole wheat flour provides a boost of fiber, while the use of canola oil and light butter keeps the fat content in check.
While these are perfect for Hanukkah, their flavors and presentation make them suitable for any occasion. Think of them as a winter-friendly treat that pairs beautifully with seasonal spices and warm beverages.
Sweet, Fluffy and Festive
From the airy texture of the challah dough to the sweet surprise of jam in every bite, these rolls are a celebration of flavor and tradition. They’re easy to prepare, customizable to suit your taste, and ideal for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating Hanukkah or simply looking for a delicious baking project, these Jam Donut Pull Apart Challah Rolls are sure to impress.
Servings: 8 (1 serving = 2 rolls)
Calories per Serving: 89
On Nutrisystem, Count As: 1 SmartCarb and 1 Extra
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ tsp. dry active yeast
- 3 Tbsp. white sugar, divided
- ½ cup warm water
- ¾ Tbsp. light butter, melted
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup white whole wheat flour
- ½ tsp. salt
- 3 Tbsp. strawberry jam
- 1 Tbsp. canola oil
- ½ tsp. cinnamon
Directions:
- Pour yeast and 2 tablespoons of sugar into warm water and mix. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes until it "flowers" or bubbles up.
- Stir in the melted butter and beaten egg.
- Mix with your hands, and slowly incorporate the flours and salt until it forms a dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 5-7 minutes.
- Let the dough sit for 10 minutes, then knead again for another 5-7 minutes until it is no longer sticky. Form the dough into a round shape.
- Lightly oil a bowl, place the dough in the bowl, and turn it over a few times to oil the surface. Cover the bowl with a thin cloth and place it in a warm, dark place. Let the dough rise for 1 ½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Punch down the dough and knead it a few times to remove some air bubbles. Divide the dough into 16-18 equal parts.
- Flatten each piece of dough. Place about ½ teaspoon of jam onto each piece. Gather the edges of the dough around the jam and seal. Roll between your hands to form a ball.
- Place the filled dough balls into a round baking tin.
- In a separate bowl, mix remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar with cinnamon.
- Brush the dough balls with oil and sprinkle them with the cinnamon sugar.
- Cover the baking tin and let the dough rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan.
