Sweet Yeast Dough Lucky Pigs for New Year's Eve

Sweet Yeast Dough Lucky Pigs for New Year's Eve

A lovely baking tradition for the turn of the year. The fluffy yeast dough is wonderful for children aged three and up to shape into little pig faces. Kneading together supports fine motor skills and brings a lot of joy to the family kitchen.

Ingredients

• 250 g spelt flour (type 630, organic if possible)
• 100 ml lukewarm milk
• 0.5 cube fresh yeast (about 21 g)
• 30 g soft butter
• 1 tbsp agave syrup or mild honey
• 1 pinch of vanilla powder
• Raisins for the eyes
• 1 egg yolk (for brushing)

Preparation

1. Pour the lukewarm milk into a bowl, crumble the yeast into it, and stir until dissolved.
2. Add the flour, butter, agave syrup, and vanilla powder.
3. Knead everything into a smooth dough until it easily pulls away from the edge of the bowl.
4. Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place for about 45 minutes until it has visibly doubled in size.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut out circles (large ones for the face, small ones for the snout).
6. Place the small circles on the large ones as snouts, use a toothpick to form nostrils, and press raisins in for the eyes.
7. Attach small triangles as ears and brush the pigs with the egg yolk.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius (top and bottom heat) for about 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
9. Let the lucky pigs cool completely and check the temperature inside before serving.

Variations and Tips

• Variation: Instead of raisins, you can use small apple pieces for the eyes.
• Storage: The pigs keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for about two days. They also freeze wonderfully and can be briefly reheated in the oven when needed.
• For the whole family: Adults often enjoy the pigs with a little cinnamon in the dough or a fruity jam filling.
• Texture: For younger children, you can leave out the raisins if they are still difficult to chew.

Allergy and Safety Information

This recipe contains wheat (spelt), milk, and egg. Always introduce new ingredients one at a time and in small amounts. Please note: Honey is not suitable for children under 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism. Nuts pose a choking hazard and should only be used finely ground. If you have any concerns about diet or possible allergies, please speak with your pediatrician.

Nutritional Information

Spelt flour provides valuable complex carbohydrates and fiber, giving long-lasting energy for the day. The milk contributes important calcium, which is significant for bone growth during this active phase. A gentle sweetness is completely sufficient to avoid overwhelming the children's sense of taste.