Makowiec (Polish Poppy Seed Roll)

Discover the sweet and nutty delight of Polish cuisine with Makowiec, a traditional poppy seed roll. This dessert combines a soft, fluffy yeast dough with a rich, aromatic poppy seed filling, creating a treat that’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, or cozy afternoons with tea.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup milk, warm
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 packet (7 g) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Poppy Seed Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups poppy seeds
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk or lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

   In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 8–10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a stand mixer. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling

   Grind the poppy seeds finely using a grinder or food processor. In a small saucepan, combine milk, sugar, butter, honey, and vanilla. Heat gently until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Stir in the ground poppy seeds, lemon zest, and nuts if using. Cook for 2–3 minutes, then let it cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Roll

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along the edges. Carefully roll the dough from the long side into a tight log. Pinch the edges to seal. Place the roll on a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam-side down. Let it rest for 15–20 minutes.

4. Bake

   Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

5. Glaze and Serve

   Mix powdered sugar with milk or lemon juice to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled roll before slicing.

Serving

Slice Makowiec into thick pieces and serve as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. This traditional Polish dessert is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any moment that calls for a little indulgence.