Plum and poppy seed spiral
Plum and Poppy Seed Spiral: A Dessert That Delights the Senses
Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10
Introduction
Today, I invite you to discover together the magic of a plum and poppy seed spiral, an aromatic and comforting dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite. This traditional recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a simple afternoon snack to a festive dessert. Preparing this delight is not just a culinary pleasure but also a moment of joy, where each step becomes an unforgettable memory. So, get ready to enrich your culinary repertoire with a simple yet refined recipe!
Ingredients you'll use
For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 200 ml lukewarm milk
- 80 g sugar
- 80 g butter (melted but not hot)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 egg
- 25 g fresh yeast
For the filling:
- 300 g poppy seeds
- 100 g sugar
- 100 ml milk
- 2 egg whites
For the plum filling:
- ~500 g plums (about 10-12 large plums, depending on size)
For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons milk
Ingredient tips:
- Choose ripe but firm plums to prevent them from breaking down during baking. The plums add a sweet and sour flavor that perfectly complements the poppy seed filling.
- Use type 000 or 550 flour for a fluffier dough.
- Ensure that the yeast is fresh; otherwise, the dough will not rise properly.
Step by step: How to prepare the plum and poppy seed spiral
1. Activating the yeast: Start by dissolving the yeast in 50 ml of lukewarm milk, adding a tablespoon of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to activate the yeast and obtain a fluffy dough.
2. Preparing the dough: Sift the flour into a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the flour and add the egg and the activated yeast mixture. Sprinkle the remaining sugar around the edges and the salt on the opposite side. Begin kneading the dough, gradually adding the lukewarm milk and finally the melted butter. Knead until you obtain an elastic dough that no longer sticks to your hands. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in volume.
3. Preparing the filling: In a saucepan, bring the milk to a boil along with the sugar. Once the sugar has dissolved and the milk begins to boil, add the poppy seeds and mix well. Allow the mixture to homogenize, then set aside to cool. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you achieve a firm foam. Gently fold the egg white foam into the poppy seed mixture.
4. Shaping the dough: After the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 3 equal parts. Roll each piece into a rectangular sheet and evenly spread the poppy seed filling on each sheet. Roll each sheet to form logs.
5. Forming the spiral: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a round baking dish with oil. From the first log, form a spiral, placing it in the center of the dish. Repeat the process with the other two logs, arranging them around the first spiral until the dish is filled. Don't worry if it doesn't look perfect; once baked, it will be delicious!
6. Adding the plums: Wash the plums, cut them in half, and remove the pits. If you have large plums, you can cut them into quarters. Nestle the pieces of plum inside the spiral to add extra flavor and an attractive look.
7. Brushing and baking: In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk with the 2 tablespoons of milk. Brush the spiral with this mixture for a golden and appetizing crust. Bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the spiral is golden brown on top.
8. Cooling and serving: Let the spiral cool in the dish for 10-15 minutes, then carefully remove it onto a platter. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look. Slice and enjoy!
Customized version: If you want to add a bit more flavor, try adding a few drops of vanilla essence to the poppy seed filling or even a pinch of cinnamon. These will take the flavor of the spiral to another level!
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of filling? Of course! You can replace the poppy seeds with ground nuts or a sweet cheese filling.
2. How can I make the dough more aromatic? You can add lemon or orange zest to the dough for an extra flavor boost.
3. How do I store the spiral? Keep the spiral in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze it to keep it longer.
Nutritional benefits
This plum and poppy seed spiral is not only a delicious dessert but also a source of valuable nutrients. Poppy seeds are rich in calcium, iron, and essential fatty acids, while plums provide a healthy dose of fiber and antioxidants. Additionally, making this dessert at home allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding additives and preservatives found in commercial products.
Estimated calories per serving: 250-300 kcal
Serving suggestions
The plum and poppy seed spiral pairs perfectly with a cup of green tea or a fragrant coffee. Additionally, a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt alongside the dessert will add a touch of freshness.
Conclusion
Now that you have gone through each step of this recipe, you are ready to impress your family and friends with a unique plum and poppy seed spiral. It is more than just a dessert; it is an experience that brings people together, a story told through its flavors and textures. So come on, put on your apron, turn on the oven, and let yourself be inspired by the magic of cooking!
Ingredients: Dough: 500 g flour 200 ml warm milk 80 g sugar 80 g butter 1 pinch of salt 1 egg 25 g fresh yeast Filling: 300 g poppy seeds 100 g sugar 100 ml milk 2 egg whites ~500 g plums For brushing: 1 egg yolk 2 tablespoons milk