Coca de San Juan - Spanish Sweet Summer Pastry

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water 1/2 cup (120ml) warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Assorted seasonal fruits (cherries, apricots, peaches, etc.) Assorted seasonal fruits (cherries, apricots, peaches, etc.)
• 2 tablespoons honey, for glazing 2 tablespoons honey, for glazing
• Optional: powdered sugar, for dusting Optional: powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 43g, 12g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. 3.
   Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
7. 7.
   Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangular shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Arrange the seasonal fruits on top of the dough, pressing them gently into the surface.
9. 9.
   Drizzle honey over the fruits for a glossy finish.
10. 10.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
11. 11.
    Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fruits — Choose ripe and juicy seasonal fruits for the best flavor and texture.
• Active dry yeast — Make sure the yeast is fresh and active to ensure proper dough rising.
• Olive oil — Use a good quality olive oil for a subtle hint of flavor in the dough.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, sprinkle some sliced almonds or grated orange zest over the fruits before baking.
• Serve the Coca de San Juan warm or at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
• If you prefer a sweeter pastry, you can brush the crust with a simple syrup after baking.

Serving advice

Serve the Coca de San Juan as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat during summer gatherings. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle a dusting of powdered sugar over the top of the Coca de San Juan just before serving. The vibrant colors of the seasonal fruits will make it an eye-catching centerpiece.