This delicious dessert, inspired by the unmistakable taste of jam-filled pastries, is a perfect choice for any occasion, but also to treat the family on an ordinary day. Preparing it is simple, and the final result will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Here’s how to make it step by step.
Start by sifting the flour carefully into a large bowl. It is important that this step is done well, as aerating the flour will contribute to the fluffy texture of the dough. In another container, combine the warm milk with the sugar and yeast. Mix them well, allowing the yeast to activate for a few minutes; you will notice it starting to form bubbles, indicating that it is ready to make the dough rise.
Once the milk mixture is ready, pour it over the sifted flour. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Next, add an egg, lemon zest, and salt, continuing to mix. Then, it’s time to integrate the margarine, preferably from a block, which will melt more easily and incorporate well into the dough. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and smooth, similar to that used for sweet bread.
After you have obtained a well-bound dough, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in volume. This is the stage where the dough will develop its flavor and texture. Once it has risen, divide it into three equal parts. Take each piece and roll it out into a rectangle, being careful not to make it too thin.
On each rectangle of dough, place your favorite jam (for example, apricot or plum), making sure to leave free edges to seal the rolls. Carefully roll the dough, starting from one side and continuing until you obtain a tight roll. After you have rolled all three parts, braid them together for an attractive presentation. Place the braid in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Let it rise again for an hour, covered, to double its volume once more. When ready, brush the surface with a beaten egg yolk mixed with a little milk, which will give it a beautiful golden color. If desired, sprinkle with brown sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for about 20 minutes, until it becomes golden and appetizing. You can experiment with different fillings, such as ground nuts, sweet cheese, raisins, or even Turkish delight, to create new and interesting variations of this classic dessert. Once they have cooled slightly, slice and enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or coffee. This sweet will undoubtedly become a favorite for everyone!
Start by sifting the flour carefully into a large bowl. It is important that this step is done well, as aerating the flour will contribute to the fluffy texture of the dough. In another container, combine the warm milk with the sugar and yeast. Mix them well, allowing the yeast to activate for a few minutes; you will notice it starting to form bubbles, indicating that it is ready to make the dough rise.
Once the milk mixture is ready, pour it over the sifted flour. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Next, add an egg, lemon zest, and salt, continuing to mix. Then, it’s time to integrate the margarine, preferably from a block, which will melt more easily and incorporate well into the dough. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and smooth, similar to that used for sweet bread.
After you have obtained a well-bound dough, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in volume. This is the stage where the dough will develop its flavor and texture. Once it has risen, divide it into three equal parts. Take each piece and roll it out into a rectangle, being careful not to make it too thin.
On each rectangle of dough, place your favorite jam (for example, apricot or plum), making sure to leave free edges to seal the rolls. Carefully roll the dough, starting from one side and continuing until you obtain a tight roll. After you have rolled all three parts, braid them together for an attractive presentation. Place the braid in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Let it rise again for an hour, covered, to double its volume once more. When ready, brush the surface with a beaten egg yolk mixed with a little milk, which will give it a beautiful golden color. If desired, sprinkle with brown sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
Bake at 180 degrees Celsius for about 20 minutes, until it becomes golden and appetizing. You can experiment with different fillings, such as ground nuts, sweet cheese, raisins, or even Turkish delight, to create new and interesting variations of this classic dessert. Once they have cooled slightly, slice and enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or coffee. This sweet will undoubtedly become a favorite for everyone!
Ingredients
300 ml milk, 90 g margarine, 1 egg, 20 g yeast, lemon zest, a pinch of salt, 60 g sugar, 550 g flour, jam to taste