Homemade Traditional German Mohnkuchen (Poppy Seed Cake) Recipe

Ingredients

For the dough:
500 grams of all-purpose flour
200 grams of granulated sugar
1 packet of dry yeast (approximately 7 grams)
200 ml of warm milk
100 grams of butter, melted
1 pinch of salt
2 egg yolks
For the poppy seed filling:
500 grams of ground poppy seeds
150 grams of granulated sugar
50 ml of rum
200 ml of milk
1 packet of vanilla sugar (approximately 8 grams)
Grated zest of 1 lemon
For the topping:
1 egg white
2 tablespoons of milk
2 tablespoons of granulated sugar

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, warm milk, melted butter, salt, and egg yolks. Knead until a smooth dough forms. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare the poppy seed filling. In a saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, sugar, rum, milk, vanilla sugar, and grated lemon zest. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the cooled poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll up the dough tightly from the long side, like a jelly roll. Place the roll on the prepared baking tray with the seam side down.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white, milk, and sugar. Brush this mixture over the top of the roll.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool before slicing and serving.

Tools for making

Large bowl - for mixing and kneading the dough
Saucepan - for cooking the poppy seed filling
Baking tray - to bake the Mohnkuchen roll
Parchment paper - to line the baking tray and prevent sticking
Rolling pin - for rolling out the dough
Whisk - to mix the egg white, milk, and sugar for the topping

Recipe variations

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
Replace the poppy seed filling with a different filling of your choice, such as raspberry jam or almond paste.
Add a layer of sliced apples or pears on top of the poppy seed filling before rolling up the dough.
Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, on top of the poppy seed filling for added texture and flavor.
Add a touch of cinnamon or cardamom to the dough for a hint of spice.
Make a streusel topping by combining flour, butter, and sugar, and sprinkle it over the roll before baking.
Add a drizzle of chocolate glaze or icing on top of the baked and cooled Mohnkuchen for a decadent finish.
For a vegan option, use plant-based milk and substitute the butter with coconut oil or margarine.

Recipe overview

Mohnkuchen, a traditional German poppy seed cake, is a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. This sweet and savory treat, made from a yeast-based dough rolled with a rich poppy seed filling, is a staple in many German households and bakeries. Our recipe will guide you through the process of making your own Mohnkuchen at home, allowing you to experience the unique flavors and textures of this celebrated pastry. You can expect a soft, fluffy bread with a slightly crunchy exterior, filled with a moist, slightly sweet, and slightly nutty poppy seed filling. This Mohnkuchen recipe may require some time and patience, but the end result is a delicious cake that's sure to impress.

Common questions

Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute for dry yeast in this recipe. Use the same amount of instant yeast as specified for dry yeast.
Can I use a different type of flour? While all-purpose flour works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of flour such as bread flour or whole wheat flour. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary.
Can I substitute the poppy seed filling with something else? If you're not a fan of poppy seeds, you can try substituting it with other fillings, such as ground almonds or hazelnuts mixed with sugar and a bit of cinnamon.
Can I freeze the Mohnkuchen? Yes, you can freeze the Mohnkuchen. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. After kneading the dough, you can store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature and rise properly before proceeding with the recipe.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowl - A large bowl for combining the dough ingredients.
Saucepan - Used for cooking the poppy seed filling.
Baking tray - A flat tray used for baking the Mohnkuchen roll.
Parchment paper - Placed on the baking tray to prevent sticking.
Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough into a rectangle.
Pastry brush - For brushing the egg white mixture on top of the roll.

Origin stories

Mohnkuchen, also known as poppy seed cake, hails from Germany, where poppy seeds are known as 'mohn'. This delectable dessert is a testimony to Germany's rich, centuries-old baking tradition. Not just a simple sweet treat, Mohnkuchen holds a special place in German culture. It's often baked for special occasions and festive periods such as Christmas and Easter. The use of poppy seeds in German pastries dates back to medieval times when monks cultivated poppy in monastery gardens for medicinal purposes. Over time, the poppy seed made its way into the German confectionery world, leading to the creation of the beloved Mohnkuchen. So, when you bite into a slice of Mohnkuchen, you're not just indulging in a dessert, you're partaking in a slice of history.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.