Poppy Seed Roll

Poppy seed roll, or “Makowiec,” is a traditional Eastern European pastry that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This sweet, yeast-based roll features a rich, nutty, and slightly bitter poppy seed filling, often combined with a touch of honey, citrus zest, and dried fruit for extra flavor. The dough is rolled up around the filling, creating a stunning swirl pattern once baked. Light and fluffy on the outside with a moist, flavorful center, poppy seed roll is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or just as a delightful treat with coffee or tea.

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup warm milk
• 1 egg
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the poppy seed filling:

• 1 cup poppy seeds
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup raisins or chopped dried fruit (optional)
• 2 tbsp milk

For the glaze:

• 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the poppy seed filling: While the dough is rising, grind the poppy seeds using a coffee grinder or food processor. In a saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, sugar, honey, milk, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Cook over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the raisins or dried fruit if using. Let the filling cool.
3. Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
4. Fill and roll: Spread the cooled poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough up, starting from the long side, into a tight log. Pinch the edges to seal.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the roll seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the roll with the egg wash and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Cool and serve: Let the poppy seed roll cool slightly before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

This poppy seed roll is a delightful blend of soft, sweet dough and a flavorful, nutty filling, making it a perfect treat for holidays or anytime you’re craving something special.