hungarian poppy seed roll recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
hungarian poppy seed roll recipe
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The Best hungarian poppy seed roll recipe

I have been making Hungarian poppy seed rolls for years, and they are a staple in our home during the holidays. My kids love the sweet, nutty filling and the soft, yeasty dough. This recipe is perfect for Christmas morning breakfast or as a special treat for Sunday brunch. It brings a taste of Eastern Europe to our table, and I love that poppy seeds are a good source of calcium and fiber, making this dessert a little more wholesome than your average pastry.

The process of rolling the dough with the poppy seed filling is so satisfying, and the smell that fills the kitchen is absolutely wonderful. I have adapted this recipe over time to be foolproof, so even if you have never worked with yeast dough before, you can get a beautiful, tender roll. It is a recipe that feels special without being overly complicated, and it always gets rave reviews from friends and family.

Hungarian Poppy Seed Roll (Beigli)

Hungarian Poppy Seed Roll (Beigli)

4.7 from 858 votes

A classic Hungarian pastry with a sweet, rich poppy seed filling wrapped in a soft, yeasted dough. This beigli is perfect for holidays or any special occasion, with a nutty and aromatic flavor that everyone loves.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hours 5 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg
1/2 cup milk, lukewarm
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Poppy Seed Filling

1 1/2 cups ground poppy seeds
1/2 cup whole milk
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 cup raisins (optional)
1 large egg white, for brushing

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add cold butter cubes and mix on low until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3Add the yeast mixture, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix on low until a dough forms, then knead on medium speed for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
5While the dough rises, make the filling. In a saucepan, combine ground poppy seeds, milk, sugar, and honey. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick and creamy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and raisins. Let cool completely.
6Punch down the risen dough and divide it in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll each half into a 10×12 inch rectangle.
7Spread half of the poppy seed filling evenly over each rectangle, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
8Starting from the long side, tightly roll up each rectangle into a log. Pinch the seams and tuck the ends under.
9Place the rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let rise for 30 minutes.
10Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with beaten egg white.
11Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

🔧Equipment

Stand mixer with dough hook
Mixing bowls
Rolling pin
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Pastry brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 180mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 18g🥩Protein: 9g

📝Notes

For best results, use freshly ground poppy seeds. The dough can be made a day ahead and refrigerated after the first rise. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.

Watch Video Of How Hungarian Poppy Seed Roll (Beigli) Works

This Hungarian poppy seed roll is a family favorite that I turn to for every holiday and special gathering. It is a reliable recipe that always impresses, and the beautiful spiral of filling makes it a showstopper on any dessert table. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hungarian Poppy Seed Roll (Beigli)

1. Can I use pre-ground poppy seeds from a jar?

Yes, you can use pre-ground poppy seeds, but freshly ground seeds will give you a much better flavor and texture. If using pre-ground, make sure they are fresh and not rancid. You can grind whole poppy seeds in a coffee grinder or food processor.

2. My dough is too sticky, what should I do?

If your dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time while kneading until it becomes smooth and no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl. Be careful not to add too much flour, as this can make the roll dense.

3. Can I freeze Hungarian poppy seed rolls?

Absolutely. Baked and cooled rolls freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and let rise before baking.

4. Why did my filling leak out during baking?

Filling leakage usually happens if the filling is too wet or if the roll is not sealed properly. Make sure your filling has cooled and thickened before spreading. Also, pinch the seams and ends of the roll very well. Some bakers like to brush the edges with a little water before sealing.

5. What can I substitute for poppy seeds?

If you do not have poppy seeds, a common substitute is a walnut or almond filling. You can make a walnut filling by grinding walnuts and mixing them with milk, sugar, and a bit of cinnamon. The texture will be different, but it will still be delicious.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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