Poppy roll

Ingredients

The Dough

50 grams (1.76 ounces) butter

60 grams (2.12 ounces) milk

6 grams (0.21 ounces) instant yeast

20 grams (0.71 ounces) sugar

2 egg yolks

Pinch of salt

160 grams (5.64 ounces) flour

Poppy Filling

80 grams (2.82 ounces) poppy seeds

80 grams (2.82 ounces) poppy paste

50 grams (1.76 ounces) sugar

2 egg whites

10 grams (0.35 ounces) butter

Pinch of vanillin

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1: Separate the egg whites and yolks. Reserve the whites for the poppy seed filling, and use the yolks for the dough. Tip: Ensure no yolk gets into the whites, as it can affect the consistency of the filling.

Step 2

Step 2: Melt the butter and allow it to cool. Warm the milk slightly and combine it with the sugar and instant yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy. Tip: Proper yeast activation is crucial for a well-risen dough.

Step 3

Step 3: Add the melted butter and egg yolks to the yeast mixture, and stir until combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, and knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover it with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour. Tip: You can test if the dough is properly kneaded by performing the windowpane test.

Step 4

Step 4: To prepare the poppy filling, mix the poppy seeds, poppy paste, sugar, egg whites, softened butter, vanillin, and a pinch of salt. If you do not have poppy paste, double the amount of poppy seeds. Pour boiling water over the poppy seeds and let them cook for 5-10 minutes. Drain the excess water, and grind the seeds in a blender until smooth. Combine this mixture with the sugar, egg whites, butter, and vanillin until thick. Tip: Ensure the filling is thick enough so it doesn't run out of the pastry during baking.

Step 5

Step 5: After an hour, knead the risen dough manually and roll it into a rectangle about 3mm (0.12 inch) thick. Spread the filling evenly, leaving a 2cm (0.80 inch) border around the edges. Tip: Use a spatula to spread the filling for a more even layer.

Step 6

Step 6: Roll the dough into a log and pinch the edges to seal. To help the roll maintain its shape during baking, loosely wrap it with a sheet of parchment paper, leaving some space for expansion. Tip: Avoid rolling the dough too tightly to prevent gaps.

Step 7

Step 7: Bake the roll in a preheated oven at 374°F (190°C) for about 35 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow it to cool before slicing and serving. Enjoy! Tip: A baking thermometer can help ensure the center is fully baked.

Servings

Once your luscious poppy seed pastry is baked to golden perfection, it's time to enjoy it! 🥳

For a classic touch, you can serve slices of this pastry with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It's a perfect addition to a leisurely weekend brunch or a delightful mid-afternoon snack.

Hosting a party? Cut the pastry into smaller pieces and arrange them on a tray with an elegant dusting of powdered sugar for a sophisticated finger food option. 🧁✨

If you're feeling extra indulgent, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch your guests' eyes light up! 🍨

Remember, this pastry is versatile! Try pairing it with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a refreshing twist. 🍓🍇

Equipment

Mixing Bowl

Essential for combining your ingredients smoothly. A large bowl works best so you have room to stir or knead the dough comfortably.

Rolling Pin

For rolling your dough to the perfect thickness. Lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Baking Sheet

A standard baking sheet covered with parchment paper ensures even baking and easy clean-up.

Blender

Great for blending poppy seeds into a smooth paste if you don't have store-bought poppy paste.

Kitchen Towel

Used to cover the dough while it rises to keep it warm and moist.

Variations

Want to make this recipe friendly for different dietary needs? We've got you covered! 🌱🍞

Gluten-Free Version: Swap the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to add a bit of xanthan gum if your mix doesn't already include it to help the dough hold together.

Vegan Version: Replace the butter with a plant-based spread and use almond or soy milk instead of dairy. You can substitute the egg yolks with a vegan egg replacer or a mix of flaxseed meal and water.

These changes ensure everyone can enjoy this delicious pastry without compromising on taste! 🎉

Faq

What can I use if I don't have poppy paste?
You can double the amount of poppy seeds in the recipe. Boil them and grind them into a smooth paste.
How do I know if my yeast is still active?
After adding it to warm milk with sugar, it should foam up within about 10 minutes. If it doesn’t, the yeast may be inactive.
How do I prevent the roll from spreading too much during baking?
Loosely wrap a sheet of parchment around the roll to maintain its shape.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can let the dough rise, punch it down, then refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
How do I ensure the filling doesn't leak out?
Make sure to leave a border when spreading the filling, and pinch the edges well when rolling up the pastry.
How can I enhance the flavor of the filling?
Try adding a hint of citrus zest or a splash of almond extract to the poppy filling for an extra layer of flavor.