Spirals with apples and raisins

Apple and Raisin Spirals - An Autumn Delight

Who can resist a dessert that combines the sweet flavors of caramelized apples with a soft and fluffy dough? Apple and raisin spirals are the perfect choice for any occasion, whether it's a gathering with friends, a family meal, or simply a personal treat. This dessert is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, even for those with little kitchen experience.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12 spirals

Ingredients

*Dough:*
- 450 g flour
- 1 egg
- 220 g natural yogurt (preferably Greek for a creamier texture)
- 100 g sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 25 g fresh yeast
- Oil for greasing the dough

*Filling:*
- 3 medium-sized apples (tart apples are ideal)
- 2 tablespoons raisins (try to choose the largest and juiciest ones)
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 egg yolk and 2 tablespoons milk (for finishing)

*Glaze:*
- 150 g powdered sugar
- Juice of one lemon (for a fresh taste)

Brief History

This type of dessert with apples and other fruits has been popularized in various cultures, rooted in the tradition of using seasonal ingredients. Apple and raisin spirals are often associated with the beauty of autumn when apples are in full season. This recipe combines tradition with innovation, offering a delicious and comforting variation.

Step-by-step Preparation

1. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl (or, as I like to do, in the bowl I bought from the Pottery Fair, which adds a touch of authenticity), sift the flour. This will help aerate the flour and achieve a fluffier dough.

2. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the yeast with a tablespoon of sugar, then add a bit of warm milk (not hot, so as not to kill the yeast). Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

3. Forming the dough: In the center of the flour, make a well. Add the remaining sugar, vanilla sugar, activated yeast, and the egg. Start mixing gently, then add the yogurt, salt, and the remaining warm milk. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands.

4. Proofing: Grease the dough with a little oil and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, until it doubles in volume.

5. Preparing the filling: While the dough is rising, peel the apples and cut them into small cubes. In a pan, sauté the apples with the raisins and sugar. When the apples start to release juice, add the cornstarch dissolved in 2-3 tablespoons of cold water. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes, then add the cinnamon. Mix well and let the filling cool.

6. Forming the spiral: After the dough has risen, turn it out onto an oiled work surface. Roll the dough into a round sheet about 1 cm thick. Grease the dough with oil and cut it into 8 pieces, like a pizza. Fold two opposite rays towards the center until you get a ball, which you let rest for 10 minutes.

7. Filling and forming the spiral: Roll the dough again into a rectangular sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Evenly distribute the filling over the entire surface of the sheet. Fold lengthwise in thirds, then cut the pieces of dough into 2 cm strips. Twist each strip and place them in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

8. Greasing and baking: Brush the spirals with a mixture of egg yolk and milk. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the spirals for 10 minutes at high heat, then reduce the temperature and continue baking until they are nicely browned, about 15-20 minutes.

9. Glazing: While the spirals are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with lemon juice until you achieve a sauce-like consistency. When the spirals are ready, take them out of the oven and glaze them while they are still warm.

Useful Tips

- Choose the apples carefully: Tart apples, such as green ones or apple mixes, provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the sugar and raisins.
- Experiment with flavors: You can add chopped nuts or almonds to the filling for extra texture and taste. Also, a splash of vanilla in the filling will enhance the flavors.
- Serving: These spirals are delicious served warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. They pair perfectly with a cup of fragrant tea or coffee.

Nutritional Benefits

These apple and raisin spirals not only satisfy the sweet tooth but also provide a good source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the apples and yogurt. Apples are rich in fiber, and yogurt contains beneficial probiotics for digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Absolutely! You can experiment with peaches, plums, or even berries.
2. How can I store the spirals? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can reheat them to restore their freshness.
3. Can I freeze the spirals? Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Wrap them in plastic wrap and freeze. When you want to consume them, let them thaw at room temperature and reheat them slightly.

Apple and raisin spirals are more than just a dessert - they are a family story, a sweet memory, and a way to bring joy into every day. So put on your apron and let’s bake together!

 Ingredients: Dough: 450 g flour, 1 egg, 220 g yogurt, 100 g sugar, 1 vanilla sugar, 1 pinch of salt, 25 g fresh yeast, oil for greasing the dough. Filling: 3 medium-sized apples, 2 tablespoons raisins, 3 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon starch, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1 egg yolk and 2 tablespoons milk (for finishing). Glaze: 150 g powdered sugar, lemon juice.