Embark on a delightful culinary adventure with this traditional Ukrainian Poppy Seed Roll recipe. Each step is crafted to guide you through creating this cherished Eastern European delicacy.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Ukrainian |
| Course | Dessert, Snack |
| Key Ingredients | Poppy seeds, flour, milk, butter, eggs |
| Preparation Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30-35 minutes |
| Serving Temperature | Room temperature or slightly warm |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, nutty, with a hint of citrus |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate |
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp lemon zest
For the Poppy Seed Filling:
- 2 cups poppy seeds
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions
Preparing the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve 1 tsp of sugar in warm milk. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the softened butter, eggs, lemon zest, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Making the Poppy Seed Filling:
- Prepare Poppy Seeds: Grind the poppy seeds using a coffee grinder or food processor until they are finely ground.
- Cook the Filling: In a saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, sugar, and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
- Add Flavors: Stir in the butter, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and optional nuts and raisins. Allow the filling to cool to room temperature.
Assembling the Roll:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half into a rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).
- Add Filling: Spread half of the poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Shape the Roll: Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, sealing the ends and seam well.
- Second Rise: Place the roll on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the second piece of dough and the remaining filling. Cover the rolls and let them rise for 30 minutes.
Baking:
- Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat together 1 egg with 1 tbsp of milk. Brush this mixture over the rolls.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade Ukrainian Poppy Seed Roll, a sweet and sumptuous treat that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether served as a dessert, a snack, or a special holiday treat, this roll is sure to delight with its rich flavors and tender texture.