Apricot and Coconut Filled Sweet Bread

Apricot and Coconut Filled Sweet Bread

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• • 1 tablespoon dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 8 grams vanilla sugar (about 1 tablespoon)

• • 200ml warm milk
  • 50ml oil
  • 1 egg white

• 340g all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 3 tablespoons apricot jam
• 2 tablespoons shredded coconut

For the Topping:

• • 1 egg yolk + 1 teaspoon milk (for egg wash)
  • Almonds (for decoration)
  • Fine sugar (for sprinkling)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

• • In a bowl, mix the dry yeast, sugar, vanilla sugar, and warm milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • Add the oil, egg white, flour, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.

• Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Cover the dough with a cloth and let it rest in a warm place for about 40 minutes or until it doubles in size.

2. Divide the Dough:

• Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal halves.
• Lightly grease your hands with a little oil and gently flatten each dough half.

3. Add the Filling:

• Spread 3 tablespoons of apricot jam evenly over one of the dough halves.
• Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of shredded coconut on top of the jam.

4. Shape the Dough:

• Place the second dough half on top of the jam and coconut filling, sealing the edges gently.
• Shape the dough into a desired form (round or loaf shape).

5. Egg Wash and Rest:

• • In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk and milk.
  • Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash, and sprinkle with almonds.
  • Let the dough rest for an additional 10 minutes.

6. Bake:

• • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Bake the dough in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

7. Finishing Touches:

• • Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
  • Dust with fine sugar before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack.
  • Pair with fresh fruit or yogurt for a light breakfast.
  • Add a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.

Cooking Tips:

• • Make sure the milk is warm (not hot) when mixing with yeast to ensure proper activation.
  • Allow the dough to rise in a warm place for the best texture and volume.
  • Use a sharp knife to score the dough before baking for a decorative look.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Apricot Jam: Adds a natural sweetness and provides vitamins A and C.
• Coconut: Offers fiber and healthy fats.
• Almonds: A good source of protein and vitamin E.