There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through a home—warm, nostalgic, and instantly comforting. Among the many beloved bread recipes passed down through generations, Sweet Bread Rolls (Shoreek) hold a special place in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean households. These beautifully shaped spirals are soft, lightly sweet, and wonderfully fragrant with hints of vanilla.
Shoreek bread has been enjoyed for decades as a breakfast treat, a simple afternoon snack, or a festive addition to holiday tables. Whether paired with hot tea, dipped into warm milk, or enjoyed on its own, each roll offers that irresistible bakery-style softness that keeps you coming back for more.
For those who love baking but want something approachable, Shoreek is the perfect recipe. It uses simple pantry staples, comes together easily, and produces rolls that look as impressive as they taste. Let’s explore how to make these sweet, cloud-like spirals right at home.
Recipe Overview
Sweet Bread Rolls (Shoreek) are soft, lightly sweetened spirals of dough enriched with milk, egg, vanilla, and sugar. They’re shaped into beautiful coils, brushed with a glossy vanilla egg wash, and sprinkled with sugar before baking. Fluffy on the inside with a delicate golden crust, these rolls are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients & Instructions
Below are the ingredients you’ll need, along with detailed steps and helpful tips to ensure you bake the softest, most delicious Shoreek rolls every time.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon dry instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup oil or melted butter
- 1 cup warm milk
- Granulated sugar for sprinkling
For the egg wash:
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water or milk
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and instant yeast. Ensure everything is well combined—this helps the dough rise evenly.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients
In a small bowl, beat the egg with vanilla extract. Add the egg mixture and oil (or melted butter) to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed or by hand until incorporated.
3. Add Milk and Knead
Gradually pour in the warm milk while mixing. Continue kneading for several minutes until a soft, smooth dough forms. It should feel slightly tacky but not sticky. If too dry, add a tablespoon of milk; if too sticky, dust lightly with flour.
Tip: Warm milk activates the yeast more efficiently, helping your bread rise beautifully.
4. First Rise
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise until doubled in size. Depending on room temperature, this may take 1–1½ hours.
5. Prepare Baking Sheets
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
6. Divide the Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough gently to release air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. For perfectly even rolls, weigh each piece using a kitchen scale.
7. Shape the Rolls
Roll each piece into a long rope—around 12 to 14 inches long. Then coil each rope into a spiral shape, tucking the end underneath so it doesn’t unravel while baking.
8. Second Rise
Place the shaped spirals on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them. Cover and let them rise a second time until puffy—usually 30–45 minutes.
9. Make the Egg Wash
Whisk together the egg, water (or milk), and optional vanilla extract. The vanilla gives an aromatic bakery-style flavor that enhances the sweetness.
Brush each roll generously with the egg wash, then sprinkle lightly with granulated sugar.
10. Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the rolls on the middle rack and bake until they begin turning golden. Then move the trays to the upper third of the oven to finish browning. This dual-position baking gives the rolls a crisp, golden top without overbaking the bottom.
Remove from the oven and let the rolls cool on a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Ensuring Soft, Fluffy Rolls
- Don’t add too much flour; the dough should be soft and supple.
- Knead for at least 7–10 minutes for proper gluten development.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free environment.
2. Flavor Variations
- Orange Blossom or Rose Water: Add ½ teaspoon for a Middle Eastern touch.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle on top instead of sugar.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the ropes in cinnamon sugar before shaping for a sweet twist.
3. Filling Options
Though traditional Shoreek is plain, you can add a light filling:
- Sweetened cream cheese
- Date paste
- Nutella (sparingly)
4. Dairy-Free or Low-Fat Version
- Use plant-based milk and oil instead of butter.
- Replace egg wash with a milk-only wash for a lighter shine.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm briefly in the oven.
Reheating
Warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes, or microwave for 10–15 seconds for instant softness.
Serving Ideas
- Serve warm with butter, jam, or honey.
- Pair with tea, coffee, or hot milk.
- Use leftovers for sweet breakfast sandwiches.
Sweet Bread Rolls (Shoreek) are the kind of recipe that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. They’re simple enough for everyday baking but special enough to share during holidays and gatherings. Soft, lightly sweet, beautifully shaped, and incredibly comforting—these rolls are a reminder of the beauty of homemade bread.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just beginning your bread-making journey, Shoreek is a recipe worth adding to your collection. Give it a try, enjoy the aroma, and savor each warm bite.
FAQs
1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes—just dissolve it in the warm milk first and let it foam for 5–10 minutes before adding.
2. Why do the rolls need two rises?
The first rise builds structure, while the second rise ensures softness and a light texture.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. Refrigerate overnight after the first rise, then shape and let rise before baking.
4. Can I skip the egg wash?
Yes, but the rolls will be paler. A milk wash works as a lighter alternative.
5. How do I keep the rolls from drying out?
Store them in an airtight container as soon as they cool to preserve softness.
Make soft, sweet, bakery-style Sweet Bread Rolls (Shoreek) with this easy recipe. Lightly sweet spirals with vanilla aroma perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
