Tahinopitakia: Sweet Tahini Rolls

Steps

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1. 1
   Make the cinnamon-sugar mixture by combining granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and the zest of your chosen citrus in a bowl, mixing well and setting aside.
   ▶ ≈0:39
2. 2
   Pulse the nuts in a food processor until finely chopped, then set aside.
   ▶ ≈1:00
3. 3
   Combine water, sugar, and citrus juice in a small saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
   ▶ ≈1:26
4. 4
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   ▶ ≈1:51
5. 5
   Lay one sheet of phyllo on a work surface and gently brush it with melted butter.
   ▶ ≈2:17
6. 6
   Layer a second phyllo sheet on top and brush with butter, then add a third sheet and brush with butter. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly across this layered phyllo.
   ▶ ≈2:17
7. 7
   Spread a layer of tahini evenly over the phyllo, mixing it well first to ensure the sesame oil is fully incorporated. Use as much or as little as you prefer for your desired tahini flavor.
   ▶ ≈2:38
8. 8
   Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the tahini layer, then add more of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
   ▶ ≈3:12
9. 9
   Roll the layered phyllo tightly from the longer side into a log, sealing the edge with a little butter and sprinkling a tiny bit of sugar.
   ▶ ≈3:18
10. 10
    Cut the log into 8 equal pieces of about 2 inches wide, cutting the log in half first, then making 4 cuts on each side.
    ▶ ≈3:24
11. 11
    Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, brush the tops with melted butter, and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
    ▶ ≈3:39
12. 12
    Repeat the same process with the remaining three phyllo sheets to create another batch of rolls.
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13. 13
    Bake on the center rack for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
    ▶ ≈3:53
14. 14
    As soon as the rolls come out of the oven while still hot, drizzle the cooled syrup over them and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the syrup before transferring to a serving platter.
    ▶ ≈3:59