SWEET TAHINI PHYLLO ROLLS: TAHINOPITAKIA

Ingredients

• 6 sheets (#4) phyllo, thawed and at room temperature
• 4 oz. unsalted butter, melted (substitute vegan butter)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Zest of an orange or lemon
• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/2 cup ground nuts: almonds, walnuts, or pistachios
• chocolate chips
• raisins
• dried cranberries
• dates
• syrup, honey, confectioner’s sugar, or fruit preserves
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• Juice of an orange or lemon

Instructions

1. 1

   In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar,...: In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and citrus juice.

2. 2

   Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat...: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

3. 3

   Remove from heat and let cool completely.

4. 4

   In a mixing bowl, stir together the sugar,...: In a mixing bowl, stir together the sugar, cinnamon, and citrus zest.

5. 5

   Stir in the ground nuts and any optional...: Stir in the ground nuts and any optional fillings of your choice.

6. 6

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a...: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

7. 7

   Lay one sheet of phyllo on a clean...: Lay one sheet of phyllo on a clean work surface and brush lightly with melted butter.

8. 8

   Place another phyllo sheet on top and brush...: Place another phyllo sheet on top and brush with butter again.

9. 9

   Spread a thin layer of the tahini mixture...: Spread a thin layer of the tahini mixture evenly over the phyllo. Sprinkle with about a tablespoon (or more) of the cinnamon-sugar nut mixture

10. 10

    Roll tightly from the longer side into a...: Roll tightly from the longer side into a log, then slice into smaller rolls, about 2 inches wide.

11. 11

    Repeat with the remaining phyllo and filling.

12. 12

    Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared...: Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with butter.

13. 13

    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown...: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.

14. 14

    If using syrup, drizzle over the warm rolls...: If using syrup, drizzle over the warm rolls and let them soak for a few minutes before serving.

15. 15

    Alternatively, dust with confectioner’s sugar or serve with...: Alternatively, dust with confectioner’s sugar or serve with fruit preserves