California Sunshine Hefekranz

Ingredients

In this Californian adaptation of Hefekranz, the traditional almond paste filling is replaced with a creamy mixture of avocado and goat cheese. The dough is infused with the zest of fresh California oranges, adding a bright and citrusy note to the pastry. Additionally, the topping features toasted California almonds, enhancing the nutty flavors of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Hefekranz, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, softened 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, softened
• Zest of 2 California oranges Zest of 2 California oranges
• 1 ripe avocado, mashed 1 ripe avocado, mashed
• 4 ounces (113g) goat cheese 4 ounces (113g) goat cheese
• 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup (60g) toasted California almonds, chopped 1/2 cup (60g) toasted California almonds, chopped
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 kJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
• Carbohydrates: 34g (Sugar: 9g)
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.4g

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 milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. 3.
   Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and orange zest 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 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling by mixing the mashed avocado, goat cheese, and powdered sugar until smooth.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
8. 8.
   Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle shape.
9. 9.
   Spread the avocado-goat cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. 10.
    Roll up the dough tightly from the long side, forming a log.
11. 11.
    Transfer the log onto a greased baking sheet, shaping it into a circle by connecting the ends.
12. 12.
    Brush the dough with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle the chopped toasted almonds on top.
13. 13.
    Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
14. 14.
    Allow the Hefekranz to cool before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Avocado — Choose a ripe avocado that is slightly soft to the touch. Mash it until smooth for a creamy filling.
• Goat cheese — Use a fresh and tangy goat cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• California oranges — Select oranges with vibrant and fragrant peels to infuse the dough with a burst of citrusy aroma.
• Toasted California almonds — Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown for a nutty and crunchy topping.
• Active dry yeast — Ensure the yeast is fresh and activate it in warm milk to help the dough rise properly.

Tips & Tricks

• For a sweeter variation, add a drizzle of honey over the Hefekranz before serving.
• Experiment with different types of goat cheese, such as herb-infused or pepper-crusted, to add extra flavor to the filling.
• Serve the Hefekranz warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• If you prefer a more pronounced orange flavor, add a teaspoon of orange extract to the dough.
• To make the Hefekranz ahead of time, prepare the dough and filling the night before, refrigerate separately, and assemble and bake in the morning.

Serving advice

Slice the California Sunshine Hefekranz into generous portions and serve it as a centerpiece for brunch or afternoon tea. Accompany it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of chilled California white wine to complement the flavors.

Presentation advice

Present the Hefekranz on a beautiful platter, allowing the golden pastry and vibrant avocado filling to take center stage. Sprinkle some powdered sugar over the top for an elegant touch. Garnish with fresh orange slices and a few sprigs of mint to add a pop of color.