The Poppy Seed Roll is a beloved classic that hails from Central and Eastern Europe, a rich and flavorful pastry traditionally enjoyed during holidays and family gatherings. This rolled delicacy combines a soft, buttery dough with a rich, slightly nutty, sweet poppy seed filling, offering a perfect balance of taste and texture. Whether served as a dessert or with coffee or tea, this timeless treat is sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into the recipe that captures both history and taste in every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Poppy Seed Filling:
- 1 ½ cups poppy seeds, ground
- ¾ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp lemon zest (optional)
- ¼ cup raisins (optional)
For Assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, the rest of the sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until the dough begins to come together, then knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Poppy Seed Filling:
- While the dough is rising, make the filling. In a medium saucepan, combine ground poppy seeds, milk, sugar, honey, butter, and vanilla extract.
- Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Stir in lemon zest and raisins, if using. Let the filling cool completely before using.
- Assemble the Roll:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the cooled poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Carefully roll up the dough, starting from one of the long sides, into a tight log. Pinch the seams and tuck the ends under.
- Place the roll on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a cloth and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Bake the Roll:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the roll with the beaten egg to give it a shiny, golden crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the roll is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the roll is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- Serve:
- Let the poppy seed roll cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and slice into rounds.
- Enjoy your Poppy Seed Roll with a hot cup of coffee or tea!
This traditional Poppy Seed Roll recipe promises a soft, fluffy dough filled with a nutty, aromatic poppy seed filling—an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion!