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

1. 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.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, vanilla sugar, salt, egg, softened butter, and the frothy yeast mixture. Mix well.
3. 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.
4. 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

5. 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.
6. Grind the cooked poppy seeds in a food processor or mortar and pestle until a paste forms.
7. In a bowl, mix the poppy seed paste with sugar and the egg. Set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Roll

8. 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.
9. Spread the poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. 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

11. Transfer the roll to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover it with a towel and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
12. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
13. 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

14. Bake the roll in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and fully baked.
15. 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.

Nutrition Facts (Per Slice)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh yeast instead of dry yeast?

Yes! Replace the dry yeast with 15 g of fresh yeast. Dissolve it in warm milk along with the sugar before proceeding.

2. Can I freeze the poppy seed roll?

Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

3. How do I know when the roll is done baking?

The roll should be golden brown on the outside and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Tips for Perfect Results

1. Use fresh poppy seeds: Old poppy seeds can taste bitter, so always use fresh ones for the best flavor.
2. Don’t overfill the dough: Overloading with filling can make the roll difficult to seal and bake properly.
3. Let it cool completely: Cooling allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice.

Storage Tips

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Extend freshness by refrigerating for up to 5 days.
• In the Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Slice before freezing for easier serving.

Conclusion

The Classic Poppy Seed Roll is more than just a dessert; it’s a testament to the enduring love for traditional recipes. With its simple yet elegant presentation, it’s the kind of dish that can transform an ordinary day into something special. The tender, golden dough encases a luscious, nutty filling that’s sweet but not overly indulgent—a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

This recipe is a true celebration of baking, one that invites you to slow down, enjoy the process, and share the results with loved ones. Its timelessness lies in its ability to adapt to any occasion. Whether served at a festive holiday table, given as a thoughtful homemade gift, or enjoyed with a quiet cup of tea, the poppy seed roll embodies the joy of sharing good food.

In today’s fast-paced world, baking a poppy seed roll reminds us of the simple pleasures of life: the warmth of a homemade treat, the satisfaction of creating something with our hands, and the smiles it brings to those we share it with. This roll is a keeper, destined to be passed down through generations as a beloved family favorite.