Chocolate Chip, Raisin, and Pastry Cream Swirls
Category: Baked Goods
Servings: Makes approximately 12-15 swirls
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 50g |
| Granulated Sugar | 70g |
| All-Purpose Flour | 500g |
| Fresh Brewer’s Yeast | 25g |
| Lemon Zest | Zest of 1 lemon |
| Whole Milk (warmed) | 300ml |
| Fine Salt | 7g |
| Golden Raisins (soaked) | 200g |
| Pastry Cream | 250ml |
| Dark Chocolate Chips | 100g |
| Additional Milk | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Piece)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280-320 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
- Crumble the fresh brewer’s yeast into half a cup of lukewarm milk.
- Add 2 teaspoons of granulated sugar to the milk and stir until the yeast dissolves.
- Let the mixture sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy on the surface.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- Warm the remaining milk slightly and dissolve the rest of the sugar in it.
- Add the melted butter, lemon zest, and salt to the milk-sugar mixture. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Create the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, combine the yeast mixture with the all-purpose flour.
- Gradually pour in the prepared milk mixture while kneading.
- Knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased, large bowl.
- 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
- Once risen, divide the dough into two equal parts.
- Roll each piece into a rectangle (approximately 1 cm thick) on parchment paper.
Step 6: Fill with Pastry Cream and Raisins
- Spread the first rectangle with a generous layer of cooled pastry cream.
- Sprinkle the rehydrated, drained raisins evenly over the cream.
Step 7: Fill with Chocolate Chips
- Brush the second rectangle lightly with warm milk.
- Sprinkle dark chocolate chips evenly over the surface.
Step 8: Roll and Slice
- Starting from the longer edge, roll each rectangle tightly into a log.
- Cut each log into 2.5 cm (1-inch) thick slices using a sharp knife.
Step 9: Second Rise
- Arrange the slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space for them to expand.
- Cover loosely with a towel and let rise again until doubled in size (about 30-40 minutes).
Step 10: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- 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!
