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sliced German Bienenstich roll

German Bienenstich Rolls (Twist)

Soft, fluffy German Bienenstich rolls with a sweet honey-almond topping and creamy vanilla filling. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or sharing with friends. Simple to make and always delicious.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 10 Rolls
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: German
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Dough (8-10 rolls):
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm milk 110°F / 43°C
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg
For the Honey-Almond Topping:
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup sliced almonds
For the Cream Filling:
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. Warm the milk slightly and dissolve the yeast with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, egg, and yeast mixture.
  3. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1.5 hours until doubled.
Make the Topping
  1. Melt butter with sugar, honey, and cream in a small saucepan.
  2. Remove from heat and stir in sliced almonds. Set aside to cool slightly.
Shape the Rolls
  1. Punch down the dough and divide into 8–10 pieces.
  2. Roll each piece into a ball, or twist slightly for shape.
  3. Place rolls on a parchment-lined tray with space for expansion.
Add the Topping
  1. Spoon the almond mixture on each roll generously.
Bake
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Cool slightly before adding cream.
Prepare the Cream Filling
  1. Whisk sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan.
  2. Slowly add milk, stir, and cook over medium heat until thickened.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla. Cool to room temperature.
Assemble Rolls
  1. Slice rolls horizontally and fill with cream. Close gently. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for better dough rise. Add cream filling just before serving to keep rolls soft. Toasting almonds lightly before baking deepens the flavor.