Chocolate Chip, Raisin, and Pastry Cream Swirls

Category: Baked Goods

Servings: Makes approximately 12-15 swirls

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Per Piece)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

1. Crumble the fresh brewer’s yeast into half a cup of lukewarm milk.
2. Add 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar to the milk and stir until the yeast dissolves.
3. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy on the surface.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. Warm the remaining milk slightly and dissolve the rest of the sugar in it.
2. Add the melted butter, lemon zest, and salt to the milk-sugar mixture. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Create the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, combine the yeast mixture with the all-purpose flour.
2. Gradually pour in the prepared milk mixture while kneading.
3. Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly greased, large bowl.
2. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1-2 hours or until it doubles in size.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

1. Once risen, divide the dough into two equal parts.
2. Roll each piece into a rectangle (approximately 1 cm thick) on parchment paper.

Step 6: Fill with Pastry Cream and Raisins

1. Spread the first rectangle with a generous layer of cooled pastry cream.
2. Sprinkle the rehydrated, drained raisins evenly over the cream.

Step 7: Fill with Chocolate Chips

1. Brush the second rectangle lightly with warm milk.
2. Sprinkle dark chocolate chips evenly over the surface.

Step 8: Roll and Slice

1. Starting from the longer edge, roll each rectangle tightly into a log.
2. Cut each log into 2.5 cm (1-inch) thick slices using a sharp knife.

Step 9: Second Rise

1. Arrange the slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space for them to expand.
2. Cover loosely with a towel and let rise again until doubled in size (about 30-40 minutes).

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Bake the swirls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the swirls to cool slightly before serving. These are best enjoyed warm with a cup of coffee or tea. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Pro Tips

• Soaking the Raisins: Soak raisins in warm water or orange juice for 15 minutes for added flavor.
• Customizing the Filling: Substitute raisins or chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruits of your choice.
• Pastry Cream Shortcut: Use store-bought pastry cream for convenience if time is limited.

Enjoy creating this indulgent treat for breakfasts, brunches, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up!