Poppy Seed Cake
Poppy Seed Bread - A Soul Recipe for Holidays
Poppy seed bread is more than just a simple dessert; it is a tradition that reminds us of the moments spent with loved ones at festive tables. My grandmother had a secret recipe, and today I will share my version, inspired by childhood memories. It is a fluffy bread with a rich poppy seed filling, perfect for holidays or any special occasion.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 2 hours
Baking time: 1 hour
Total: 3 hours 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 servings
Ingredients
*For the dough:*
- 1 kg flour
- 150 g sugar
- 600 ml milk (ideally with 1.5% fat)
- 4 eggs
- 50 g fresh yeast
- 100 g margarine
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 essence of rum
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon of orange zest
- 1 teaspoon of salt
*For the filling:*
- 200 g ground poppy seeds
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of oil
*For greasing:*
- 3 tablespoons of oil for greasing the trays
- 1 egg for brushing
Preparation
1. The yeast: The first step is to prepare the yeast. In a small pot, heat (but do not boil!) 2-3 tablespoons of milk. Add a tablespoon of sugar and the yeast. Mix well and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. The basic dough: In a large bowl, pour the flour and make a hole in the middle. Pour the yeast into the hole and let it rise for 10-15 minutes. During this time, the flour will absorb the active yeast, and the dough will start to come to life.
3. Adding the ingredients: Once the yeast has risen, add the remaining milk, sugar, and salt. Now it’s time to get your hands dirty: start kneading the dough.
4. The eggs and flavors: In a separate bowl, beat the 4 eggs and add the vanilla sugar, rum essence, lemon zest, and orange zest. This mixture will add a delicious aroma to our bread. Pour the egg mixture into our dough and continue kneading until all ingredients are well incorporated.
5. The margarine: Melt the margarine and gradually add it to the dough. This will contribute to the fluffy texture of the bread. Continue kneading until the dough becomes elastic and easy to handle.
6. Rising: Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours. The dough should double in volume.
7. The filling: Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Grind the poppy seeds and mix them with powdered sugar. This combination will add a subtle sweetness and intense flavor.
8. Shaping the bread: When the dough has risen, divide the mixture into three equal parts. Take each piece of dough and roll it out into a thin sheet. Evenly sprinkle the poppy filling over the entire surface, and add a little oil on top to prevent the filling from drying out.
9. Rolling: Gently roll the dough, being careful not to let the filling escape. Place each roll in trays that you have previously greased with oil.
10. Final rising: Brush the bread with beaten egg and let it rise for 15 minutes to enrich it with air.
11. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. The bread bakes for about 1 hour, but it's important to check on it from time to time. Do not open the oven door in the first 10 minutes to avoid letting the warm air escape.
Practical tips
- Choose ingredients carefully: Use high-quality flour and fresh eggs for a fluffier bread. The milk should be warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
- Room temperature: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to allow for optimal fermentation.
- Variations: You can experiment with different fillings by adding nuts or raisins to the poppy mixture. Also, for an even more intense flavor, try adding cinnamon or cocoa to the filling.
- Storing the bread: The bread keeps well at room temperature for a few days, but you can freeze it for long-lasting freshness.
Nutritional benefits
Poppy seed bread is not only delicious but also nutritious. Poppy seeds are an excellent source of calcium, protein, and essential fatty acids, contributing to a healthy diet. However, due to the sugar and fat content, it is recommended to consume it in moderation.
Frequently asked questions
- Why didn’t my bread rise?: Check the temperature of the ingredients and ensure that the yeast is active. If using dry yeast, it may require prior activation.
- Can I use whole wheat flour?: Yes, but it will change the texture and moisture of the dough. It is recommended to mix whole wheat flour with white flour.
- How do I know when the bread is baked?: The bread is done when it has a golden color and when, if you tap it lightly on the bottom, it sounds hollow.
Serving suggestions
Poppy seed bread pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee, but it can also be served with a drizzle of honey or fruit jam. A delicious option is to slice it thinly and serve it with cream cheese or yogurt for a savory breakfast.
In conclusion, poppy seed bread is a traditional recipe that will bring joy to any family. I encourage you to prepare it and enjoy every bite, reminding you of the beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Cooking is an art, and this bread is certainly a masterpiece!
Ingredients: Dough ingredients: - 1 kg flour; - 150 g sugar; - 600 ml milk (1.5% fat); - 4 eggs; - 50 g yeast; - 100 g margarine; - 2 packets of vanilla sugar; - 1 essence of rum; - 1 teaspoon of lemon zest; - 1 teaspoon of orange zest; - 1 teaspoon of salt. Filling - 200 g ground poppy seeds; - 100 g powdered sugar; - 1 teaspoon of oil. For greasing - 3 tablespoons of oil for greasing the trays; - 1 beaten egg.
