Soft Sweet Bread with Apricot Jam and Raisins

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• • 250 ml (1 cup) warm milk
  • 1/2 tsp salt

• • 1 tsp vanilla sugar
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 1 egg white

• • 1 tbsp yeast (active dry or instant)
  • 4 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 450 g (15.8 oz) all-purpose flour

• 40 g (3 tbsp) butter, softened
• 2 tbsp corn starch

For the Filling:

• 150 g (5.3 oz) apricot jam or preserves
• 60 g (2 oz) raisins

For Brushing:

• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

1. 1. Activate the Yeast (if using active dry yeast):
      • In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tbsp sugar (from the 3 tbsp). Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. If using instant yeast, skip this step and add it directly to the flour.
   2. Mix the Dough:
      • • In a large bowl, combine the salt, vanilla sugar, remaining sugar, and egg white.
      • Add the activated yeast mixture (or instant yeast), vegetable oil, and warm milk. Mix well.
      • Gradually add flour, 1 cup at a time, and mix until a soft dough forms.

1. 1. Knead the Dough:
      • Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
   2. Incorporate Butter and Cornstarch:
      • • Flatten the dough slightly, spread the softened butter and cornstarch over it, and knead until fully incorporated.

   3. First Rise:
      • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

1. 1. Soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
   2. Mix the apricot jam and raisins in a small bowl.

Shape and Fill the Dough:

1. 1. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle about 1 cm (1/2 inch) thick.
   2. Spread the apricot jam and raisin mixture evenly over the dough.

1. Roll the dough tightly into a log, seam-side down.

Second Rise:

1. 1. Place the log in a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan or shape it into individual rolls and place them on a baking sheet.

1. Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes.

Bake the Bread:

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).

1. Brush the top of the dough with the egg yolk and milk mixture for a shiny, golden crust.
2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cool and Serve:

• Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

• • Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

• Serve with butter, cream cheese, or additional apricot jam.
• Pair with tea or coffee for a delightful snack.

Cooking Tips

• Ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling.
• Use other jams or preserves like strawberry, peach, or fig for variation.