Higher Protein Crunchy + Fluffy Za’atar Pull-Apart Rolls
105 mins prepServes 18
These higher protein pull-apart rolls have a super crunchy exterior and fluffy interior, made with cottage cheese for moisture and structure. Perfect for breakfast or a dip in za’atar and olive oil for a classic Middle Eastern meal.
1) Whisk together the yeast, warm water, and honey and set aside until frothy, about 5 minutes. In the meantime, blend together the egg whites and cottage cheese until smooth.
2) Add the cottage cheese mixture to the yeast mixture, whisking together until incorporated. Then, add the flour, za’atar, and salt, mixing together first with a fork until a shaggy dough forms. Turn out the dough on a flour-dusted surface and knead into a smooth ball for 5-6 minutes, or knead using the hook attachment on a stand mixture for about 4 minutes.
3) Create a ball-shape with the dough, then lightly oil the surface. Cover with plastic wrap and a towel and allow to proof in a warm area until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
4) Once proofed, cut the dough in about 18-20 equal pieces, rolling each piece into a ball. Line your desired baking dish with parchment paper (I like a round cake pan, springform pan, or loaf pan!), and place the dough balls in it, with a 1cm of room between each ball. Cover and allow to proof for another 20 minutes in the pan. While the bread is proofing, preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake bread for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
