Poppy Seed Roll

There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly baked Poppy Seed Roll. This delightful pastry is not only a visual treat but also a flavor-packed experience that brings together the nutty essence of poppy seeds with a tender, sweet dough. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack with your afternoon tea, this Poppy Seed Roll is bound to become a new family favorite.

The Upside of Poppy Seed Roll

The Poppy Seed Roll is more than just a pretty pastry; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The soft, sweet bread envelops a rich, nutty filling that is both satisfying and indulgent. It’s versatile enough to be served at holiday gatherings or enjoyed as an everyday treat. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce poppy seeds into your baking repertoire if you haven’t already!

Ingredient Notes

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure and tenderness.
• Active dry yeast: Essential for leavening; it helps the dough rise and become light.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and filling; it also helps with browning.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors in the dough and aids in yeast fermentation.
• Milk: Provides moisture and richness; make sure it’s heated to about 110°F to activate the yeast.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the dough soft and adds a slight richness without overpowering the flavor.
• Egg: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients; it also gives the dough a beautiful sheen when used for the egg wash.
• Poppy seeds: The star of our filling, offering a distinctive flavor and crunch.
• Boiling water: Used to hydrate the poppy seeds, enhancing their flavor and texture.
• Ground almonds: Adds a lovely nutty flavor and richness to the filling.
• Vanilla: A splash of this extract elevates the flavor of the filling.
• Lemon zest: Adds brightness and a fresh aroma to the filling.
• Orange zest: Complements the lemon zest and adds a sweet citrus note.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowls: For combining your dough and filling ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy is key in baking!
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients and beating eggs.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough to the right thickness.
• Baking sheet: To place your assembled Poppy Seed Roll for baking.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
• Kitchen towel: For covering the dough as it rises.
• Pastry brush: For applying the egg wash.

Make Poppy Seed Roll: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, heat 1 cup of milk to about 110°F. Once it’s ready, stir in 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 1 egg. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix 1 cup of poppy seeds with 1/2 cup of boiling water in a bowl. Allow them to soak for about 15 minutes. Then, combine the soaked poppy seeds with 1 cup of ground almonds, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest. Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle, approximately 1/4 inch thick.

Step 6: Assemble the Roll

Spread the poppy seed filling evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough into a log shape.

Step 7: Bake the Roll

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with a beaten egg for the egg wash. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the Poppy Seed Roll to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

In-Season Swaps

• Ground walnuts: Substitute for ground almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Maple syrup: Use in place of sugar for a unique sweetness.
• Seasonal citrus zests: Experiment with lime or grapefruit zest for a fresh twist.
• Dried fruits: Add chopped dried apricots or cranberries for added texture and flavor in the filling.

Method to the Madness

The beauty of the Poppy Seed Roll lies in its simplicity. The dough is straightforward to make and requires minimal ingredients, while the filling can be customized to suit your taste. The soaking of the poppy seeds ensures that they are plump and flavorful, contributing to the overall moistness of the roll. This method allows you to enjoy a homemade pastry that is both impressive and delicious.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To maintain the freshness of your Poppy Seed Roll:

• Store the roll in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months.
• To serve from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it in the oven for a few minutes before enjoying.

Poppy Seed Roll FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Simply mix it directly into the dry ingredients without proofing it in milk.

What can I substitute for poppy seeds in the filling?

If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use sesame seeds or finely chopped nuts for a different flavor profile.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough and let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate it overnight. Bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out.

How can I tell if my roll is done baking?

The roll should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. If you have a kitchen thermometer, the internal temperature should read about 190°F.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Sally’s Baking Addiction: Explore more sweet and savory baked goods.
• Pinch of Yum: Discover delicious recipes that are easy to make at home.
• Minimalist Baker: Find simple, wholesome recipes that highlight seasonal ingredients.
• King Arthur Baking: Browse a wealth of baking recipes and tips.

Final Bite

The Poppy Seed Roll is a delightful pastry that brings together the comforting flavors of sweet dough and nutty poppy seeds. Its simple preparation and versatile filling make it a fantastic addition to any baking repertoire. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or as a delightful treat days later, this Poppy Seed Roll is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to experience the joy of baking this delightful bread!