Ethiopian Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: Easy Yekerefa Cake

Indulge in the warm, comforting aroma and irresistible taste of authentic Ethiopian cinnamon rolls, lovingly known as Yekerefa Cake. This traditional treat, a beloved staple in Ethiopian households, offers a unique twist on the classic cinnamon roll, incorporating subtle spices and a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the rich, slightly crumbly texture. Forget everything you think you know about cinnamon rolls – this recipe delivers a truly unforgettable experience. The subtle cardamom and fragrant cinnamon create a flavor profile unlike any other.

Prepare to be amazed by how easily you can recreate this culinary gem in your own kitchen. This simple, step-by-step recipe breaks down the process, guiding you through each stage with clear instructions and helpful tips. Let's embark on a delightful baking journey and unlock the secrets to creating the perfect Yekerefa Cake, a treat that's sure to impress your family and friends.

Tools Needed

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Oven

Ingredients

  • Flour
  • Sugar
  • Cinnamon
  • Yeast
  • Eggs
  • Butter
  • Milk
  • Salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare and Knead the Dough

  • Begin preparing the dough by mixing the flour, sugar, cinnamon, yeast, eggs, butter, milk, and salt. The exact measurements aren't specified in the transcript.
  • Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic. Again, the exact steps aren't detailed in the transcript.
Begin preparing the dough by mixing the flour, sugar, cinnamon, yeast, eggs, butter, milk, and salt. The exact measurements aren't specified in the transcript.Knead the dough until it's smooth and elastic. Again, the exact steps aren't detailed in the transcript.
Prepare and Knead the Dough

Step 2. First Rise

  • Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
Let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
First Rise

Step 3. Shape and Second Rise

  • Shape the dough into rolls and place them on a baking sheet.
  • Let the rolls rise again for about 15-20 minutes. This information is not explicitly mentioned in the transcript but is common practice for cinnamon rolls.
Shape the dough into rolls and place them on a baking sheet.Let the rolls rise again for about 15-20 minutes. This information is not explicitly mentioned in the transcript but is common practice for cinnamon rolls.
Shape and Second Rise

Step 4. Bake

  • Bake in a preheated oven at a temperature that isn't specified in the transcript, until golden brown.
Bake in a preheated oven at a temperature that isn't specified in the transcript, until golden brown.
Bake

Read more: Ethiopian Injera Tacos: A Spicy Culinary Adventure

Tips

  • Ensure the yeast is active before adding other ingredients. This is not mentioned in the transcript but is general baking knowledge.
  • Adjust baking time depending on your oven and the size of your rolls. The transcript doesn't provide specific baking times or temperatures.

Nutrition

  • N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use regular cinnamon instead of Ethiopian cinnamon?

While Ethiopian cinnamon offers a unique flavor, you can substitute it with regular cinnamon. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

2. What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

Add a tablespoon or two of flour at a time until the dough becomes manageable. Don't add too much, or the rolls will be tough.

3. How do I store leftover Yekerefa Cake?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.


Enjoy the sweet reward of your labor—a batch of delicious, homemade Yekerefa Cake. This recipe is a perfect blend of tradition and simplicity, resulting in a truly special treat. Share your freshly baked cinnamon rolls with loved ones and savor the warm, comforting flavors of Ethiopia.