Sweet fruit rolls are soft, tender pastries filled with small pieces of dried fruit that give each bite a pleasant burst of color and sweetness. The dough is enriched with butter, milk, and eggs, which creates a fluffy texture once baked. These rolls are especially enjoyable for breakfast or afternoon tea, and they make a lovely treat to share with family or guests. The preparation process is simple and relaxing, involving mixing the dough, letting it rise, rolling it with fruit, and shaping it into spirals that bake beautifully.
The rolls shown in the image have a bright and festive appearance thanks to the mixed candied fruits and raisins. As they bake, the fruits soften slightly and blend into the dough, complementing the mild sweetness of the pastry. The result is a soft, airy roll that is comforting and visually appealing.
Ingredients
For the dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup warm milk
1/4 cup warm water
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter
For the filling:
1 cup mixed dried fruit or candied fruit
1/2 cup raisins
2 tablespoons softened butter
Instructions
Begin by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients until they are evenly combined. Create a small well in the center of the mixture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, warm water, eggs, and melted butter. The liquids should be warm but not hot, ensuring the yeast activates properly without being damaged.
Pour the wet mixture into the center of the dry ingredients. Use a spoon or your hands to bring the dough together. Once it starts forming, transfer it to a clean working surface and knead it for about eight to ten minutes. The dough should become smooth, elastic, and slightly soft. Add a small amount of flour if needed but avoid adding too much so the rolls stay tender.
Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for about one hour or until it doubles in size. The rising process helps create the soft, airy texture that makes these rolls so pleasant.
Once the dough has risen, transfer it to your work surface and gently press it down to release any air. Use a rolling pin to roll it into a rectangle of medium thickness. Spread the softened butter evenly across the dough.
Sprinkle the mixed fruit and raisins over the entire rectangle. Spread them out so that every bite of the finished roll contains fruit. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Press the seam gently to seal it.
Slice the roll into even pieces. Each slice should show the spiral pattern with fruit distributed throughout. Place the slices in round molds, ramekins, or a greased baking dish, leaving enough space for them to expand during baking.
Cover the rolls again and allow them to rise for thirty minutes. During this time, they will become puffy and fill their molds more fully.
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the rolls for about 18 to 22 minutes or until the tops turn a soft golden color. The fruit pieces will glisten slightly, and the dough will become fluffy and fragrant. Remove the rolls from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Texture and Flavor
The dough is soft and lightly sweet, with a buttery aroma that becomes stronger as the rolls warm up. When pulled apart, the layers inside are airy and tender. The dried fruit adds small bursts of sweetness, making each roll colorful and flavorful.
The spiral shape gives these rolls an appealing look, especially when baked in individual molds as shown in the image. The baking process softens the dried fruit just enough to blend naturally into the dough without losing structure.
Tips for Best Results
Allow the dough enough time to rise fully. Proper rising is key to achieving the soft texture.
Use warm milk and water to help activate the yeast efficiently.
Roll the dough tightly so the spirals are well-defined and do not open while baking.
Do not overbake. Remove the rolls once they are lightly golden to keep them soft.
Dust with powdered sugar or brush with melted butter for added richness.
Variations
Add orange zest or lemon zest to the dough for a bright citrus note.
Use chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds for extra texture.
Swap the mixed fruit with chocolate chips for a different flavor.
Glaze the rolls with a simple sugar syrup or cream cheese frosting for a sweeter finish.
Storage
These rolls keep well for two days at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate them and warm them slightly before eating. They can also be frozen and reheated when needed.