Sweet Raisin Yeast Dough Men for St. Martin's Day

Introduction

These soft dough men made from fluffy yeast dough offer a wonderful sensory experience and are perfect for the lantern festival. Kneading and shaping the dough together is not only fun, but it also playfully supports your child's fine motor skills. Thanks to the natural sweetness of the raisins, this pastry is a delicious and age-appropriate treat for the darker season. It is a beautiful tradition that you can bring to life together in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For 2 to 3 portions you will need:

• 250 g wheat flour (all-purpose, preferably organic)
• 100 ml lukewarm milk
• 30 g soft butter
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 0.5 cube fresh yeast (approx. 21 g) or 1 packet dry yeast
• 30 g unsulfured raisins (soft)
• 1 egg yolk (for brushing, optional whisked with 1 tbsp milk)

Preparation

1. Pour the lukewarm milk into a large bowl and completely dissolve the yeast in it.
2. Add the flour, soft butter, and maple syrup, then knead everything into a smooth, pliable dough.
3. Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place for about 45 minutes until its volume has significantly increased.
4. Divide the dough into two or three equal pieces and shape them into little men.
5. Place the shaped dough men on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and press the raisins deep into the dough as eyes and buttons.
6. Whisk the egg yolk with a little milk, brush the dough men with it, and bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius (standard top and bottom heat) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
7. Let the pastry cool down completely before serving and check the temperature before the first bite.

Variations & Tips

• Fruity variation: Instead of raisins, you can also use dried cranberries or very small apple cubes.
• Storage: Kept in an airtight container in a bread box, the dough men stay fresh for about two days. They also freeze wonderfully and can be briefly reheated in the toaster.
• Softer texture: For children who are still intensely practicing chewing, you can soak the raisins in warm water beforehand to make them extra tender.
• For the whole family: Adults love enjoying these treats spread with a little butter and fruit jam for afternoon tea.

Allergy and Safety Information

• This recipe contains gluten (flour), lactose (milk, butter), and egg.
• Always introduce new ingredients one at a time and in small amounts to easily observe any potential reactions in your child.
• Make sure the raisins are pressed firmly into the dough so they do not fall out easily while eating.
• If you have any uncertainties regarding your child's diet or potential allergies, please consult your pediatrician.

Nutritional Information

The airy yeast dough provides valuable carbohydrates, giving your child quick energy for exciting, cool lantern parades. The raisins contain natural dietary fibers for healthy digestion and important trace elements like iron. Combined with the milk, this creates a filling snack that fits perfectly into an autumn diet. This way, your child is well-nourished for the afternoon.