This Chocolate-Hazelnut Swirl is a magnificent pastry that entwines the rich flavors of chocolate, hazelnuts, and marzipan in a soft, yeasted dough, finished with a zesty lemon glaze. Each spiral of the dough is generously filled with a luscious mix of ground hazelnuts, marzipan, cocoa, and spices, creating layers of texture and deep, complex flavors. The lemon glaze adds a bright, refreshing finish that cuts through the richness, enhancing each bite with its citrusy sharpness.
Why You’ll Love This: The combination of chocolate and hazelnuts is a classic that never fails to please, and when combined with the smooth, almond-like taste of marzipan, it becomes even more irresistible. The swirl shape not only makes for a stunning presentation but also ensures that every slice is packed with flavor. The dough is soft and slightly sweet, perfectly complementing the rich filling and the tangy glaze. This pastry is a true treat for the senses, combining a variety of textures and flavors that blend harmoniously in each slice.
Perfect Occasion: This pastry is perfect for festive occasions, holiday mornings, or as a special treat to enjoy with coffee or tea. It’s particularly suitable for gatherings where you want to impress your guests with something both beautiful and delicious. The swirl makes it easy to serve as a shared dessert or a decadent brunch centerpiece.
Decoration Tips: For an extra touch of elegance, you can sprinkle the top with chopped hazelnuts or sliced almonds before baking, adding texture and visual appeal. After applying the lemon glaze, a few strands of lemon zest or a dusting of cocoa powder can enhance the visual presentation, making the swirl even more inviting.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 125 ml milk
- 20 g fresh yeast
- 40 g sugar
- 50 g butter
- 250 g flour
- 1 egg yolk (size M)
- A pinch of salt
- For the Filling:
- 200 g marzipan, crushed
- 200 g ground hazelnuts
- 50 g sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp baking cocoa
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 1 egg white (size M)
- 1/2 bottle bitter almond flavor (optional)
- For the Glaze:
- 90 g powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp water
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- Prepare the Dough:
- Warm the milk, sugar, and butter to activate the yeast. Mix with flour, egg yolk, and salt, then knead until smooth. Let the dough rise in a warm place, covered, for 45 minutes.
- Make the Filling:
- Combine marzipan, hazelnuts, sugar, vanilla sugar, salt, cocoa, cinnamon, cream, egg white, and bitter almond flavor. Mix until well blended.
- Assemble the Swirl:
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 30×40 cm. Spread the filling evenly on top. Cut the dough lengthways into 6 strips of 5 cm each.
- Start with the first strip, roll it into a snail shape, and continue wrapping the remaining strips around it.
- Bake:
- Butter a 26 cm springform pan and place the swirl inside. Let it rest covered for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius. Brush the dough with a mixture of egg yolk and milk.
- Bake on the second lowest rack for about 30-35 minutes. If the center rises, press it down gently after baking.
- Apply the Glaze and Serve:
- Mix the powdered sugar, water, and lemon juice. Brush the warm swirl with this glaze.
- Let the pastry cool completely, then remove from the mold and cut into slices.
Enjoy this sumptuous Chocolate-Hazelnut Swirl, where each slice offers a delightful combination of nutty, chocolatey richness and the refreshing tang of lemon—perfect for any occasion that calls for a special treat!
