Delicious Homemade Poppy Seed Roll Recipe

Begin by *warming the milk* slightly to just above room temperature. This helps to activate the yeast. In a bowl, mix together the flour, yeast, and a pinch of salt.

Add in the sugar, butter, egg, and vanilla to the milk and combine well. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients to form a soft dough.

*Knead the dough* until it is smooth and elastic, approximately 10 minutes. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and allow it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.

While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a saucepan, combine the poppy seeds, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. *Heat gently*, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly.

If using, chop the walnuts and add them to the poppy seed mixture. Allow the mixture to cool completely before using.

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1 cm (0.5 inch) thick.

Spread the *prepared poppy seed filling* evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough up from one end to the other, sealing the seam well.

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the roll on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with the egg yolk for a shiny finish.

*Bake in the preheated oven* for around 30-35 minutes, or until the roll is golden brown. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing and serving.