A Classic Poppy Seed Roll is more than just a dessert; it is a slice of history wrapped in a sweet, yeasty dough. Known and loved across various cultures, this delicacy represents the art of baking at its finest. With its rich filling of poppy seeds, sugar, and a tender, buttery dough, it’s a nostalgic treat that brings back warm memories of family gatherings, festive celebrations, and cozy afternoons spent enjoying homemade baked goods.
The poppy seed roll is a timeless dessert that transcends generations. Its roots can be traced to European kitchens, where it became a staple at festive tables, symbolizing abundance and good fortune. Today, it’s cherished worldwide, appreciated for its balance of flavors and textures. The soft, pillowy dough perfectly complements the rich, nutty, and slightly earthy sweetness of the poppy seed filling. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday celebration or simply to enjoy with your favorite cup of coffee, this classic recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Dough:
Milk: 125 ml (½ cup), warm
Dry yeast: 1 tsp (5 g)
Sugar: 40 g (3 tbsp)
Vanilla sugar: 1 tsp
Salt: ½ tsp
Egg: 1 pc
Butter: 50 g (softened)
Flour: 320-350 g (2 ½ to 2 ¾ cups)
For the Poppy Seed Filling:
Poppy seeds: 100 g (⅔ cup)
Sugar: 100 g (½ cup)
Egg: 1 pc
For Brushing:
Egg yolk: 1 pc
Milk: 1 tbsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a small bowl, warm the milk until it’s slightly warm (not hot). Stir in the dry yeast, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and let it rest for 10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, vanilla sugar, salt, egg, softened butter, and the frothy yeast mixture. Mix well.
Gradually add the flour, 1 cup at a time, kneading the dough until it becomes soft and elastic. It should not stick to your hands. If necessary, add a little more flour.
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Make the Poppy Seed Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Place the poppy seeds in a small saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Simmer for 10 minutes, then drain using a fine mesh sieve.
Grind the cooked poppy seeds in a food processor or mortar and pestle until a paste forms.
In a bowl, mix the poppy seed paste with sugar and the egg. Set aside.
Step 3: Shape the Roll
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangular sheet, about 1 cm thick.
Spread the poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from one of the long edges. Pinch the seam to seal and tuck the ends under.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Transfer the roll to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a towel and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk and milk together. Brush this mixture over the roll for a golden, shiny crust.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the roll in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and fully baked.
Allow the roll to cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings and Nutritional Information
Servings: 10 slices
Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal
Why This Recipe is Timeless
The Classic Poppy Seed Roll is timeless because of its rich cultural history and universal appeal. This dessert has stood the test of time, celebrated in many countries under various names—Makowiec in Poland, Beigli in Hungary, or simply Poppy Seed Roll in English-speaking nations. It embodies the comforting essence of traditional baking, bringing together simple, wholesome ingredients into a masterpiece.
Its appeal lies in its versatility. The poppy seed roll can be enjoyed as a dessert, a breakfast treat, or an afternoon snack. It’s a symbol of hospitality and tradition, often baked during holidays or family celebrations. The combination of sweet, nutty filling and soft, buttery dough has a nostalgic charm that resonates with both young and old.
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