Cuban Medianoche Rolls

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: bread flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients while bread flour can enhance texture.

Swiss cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: American cheese

Low-fat cheese reduces calories while American cheese is more affordable.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is a healthier fat option while margarine is often less expensive.

ham

🥗Healthier: turkey ham

💰Cheaper: bologna

Turkey ham is a leaner alternative while bologna is a budget-friendly option.

Add 1 cup of warm water to a bowl and mix in 2 teaspoons of sugar and the yeast; let sit for about 5 minutes.

Whisk 3 eggs and add them to the yeast mixture along with the remaining sugar and melted lard.

Stir in 2 cups of flour, then add 3 more cups for a total of 5 cups, adjusting as needed for consistency.

Mix until the dough comes away from the sides of the bowl and feels slightly tacky.

Spray a bowl with cooking spray, place the dough inside, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes until doubled in size.

Divide the dough into 8 to 10 pieces, weighing each to be about 5 to 7 ounces.

Shape each piece into a log about 5 inches long and 2.25 inches wide, then place on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.

Cover the rolls with a clean tea towel and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Prepare an egg wash with 1 beaten egg and a little water, then brush the tops of the rolls and make a slice down the center.

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens