Traditional Polish Makowiec Recipe

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:
    • 500g all-purpose flour
    • 100g sugar
    • 7g active dry yeast
    • Pinch of salt
    • 200ml warm milk
    • 100g unsalted butter, melted
    • 1 large egg
    • 1 egg yolk
    • Zest of 1 orange
  • For the Filling:
    • 400g poppy seeds
    • 200g sugar
    • Zest of 1 orange
    • Zest of 1 lemon
    • 100g raisins
    • 50g chopped almonds
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • 2 tbsp honey
    • 1 egg white
  • For the Icing:
    • 100g powdered sugar
    • 2 tbsp lemon juice

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Make a well in the center and pour in warm milk, melted butter, egg, egg yolk, and orange zest. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean dishcloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours or until it doubles in size.
  5. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Grind the poppy seeds in a food processor, then transfer them to a bowl.
  6. Add sugar, orange zest, lemon zest, raisins, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, honey, and egg white to the ground poppy seeds. Mix until well combined.
  7. Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
  8. Roll up the dough tightly from the long side, seal the seam well and tuck the ends under. Place the roll on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  9. Let the roll rest for about 30 minutes, then bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for about 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
  10. While the roll is baking, prepare the icing by mixing the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
  11. Remove the roll from the oven and while it's still hot, spread the icing on top. Let it cool before slicing.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use a different type of flour such as whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a healthier or gluten-free version.
  • Replace the poppy seed filling with a nut filling, such as a mixture of ground walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon.
  • Add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots to the filling for added sweetness and texture.
  • Experiment with different spices in the filling, such as cardamom or nutmeg, to create unique flavor profiles.
  • Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese or ricotta cheese on top of the filling for a creamy twist.
  • For a savory twist, substitute the sweet filling with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs.
  • Make individual mini makowiec rolls by dividing the dough and filling into smaller portions and rolling them up separately.
  • Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the finished makowiec for extra decoration.

Recipe overview

Makowiec (pronounced mak-ov-yetz) is a traditional Polish dessert that's especially popular during the holiday season. This sweet pastry is filled with ground poppy seeds, citrus zest, and various nuts and dried fruits, all wrapped up in a soft, slightly sweet dough. Topped with a simple icing, Makowiec is a delightful treat that boasts a unique combination of flavors and textures. This recipe walks you through the steps of creating your own Makowiec at home. It involves making a yeast dough, a poppy seed filling, and a simple icing. While the process is a bit time-consuming due to the dough's rising time, the result is a beautifully swirled pastry that's both impressive to look at and delicious to eat. So, grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let's dive into the world of Polish baking with this delightful Makowiec recipe!

Common questions

  1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
  2. Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast in this recipe. Use the same amount of instant yeast as specified for active dry yeast.
  3. Can I use a different type of flour?
  4. All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can experiment with other types of flour such as bread flour or whole wheat flour if desired. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary.
  5. Can I replace the poppy seeds with something else?
  6. Poppy seeds are a traditional ingredient in makowiec, but if you're not a fan of poppy seeds, you can try substituting them with chopped walnuts, almond meal, or even a mix of dried fruits like apricots and cranberries.
  7. How should I store the makowiec?
  8. Once cooled, store the makowiec in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for a few months.
  9. Can I make the dough and filling ahead of time?
  10. Yes, you can make the dough and filling ahead of time. Prepare the dough, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. When you're ready to assemble, let the dough come to room temperature before rolling it out. The filling can also be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the dough ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons - To accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Whisk - For mixing the dough and other ingredients.
  • Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough into a rectangle.
  • Baking Sheet - A flat sheet used for baking the Makowiec roll.
  • Parchment Paper - To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
  • Food Processor - Used to grind the poppy seeds for the filling.
  • Knife - For slicing the cooled Makowiec into servings.

Origin stories

Makowiec, a traditional Polish poppy seed roll, is the epitome of festive culinary tradition in Poland. It is particularly savored during Christmas and Easter, becoming a symbolic centerpiece at many family tables. The poppy seeds used in the recipe are not a random choice but hold a significant meaning in Slavic mythology. They are believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and abundance, thus making Makowiec not only a gastronomic delight but also a bearer of good fortune. The meticulous and multi-stepped process of preparing Makowiec is a testament to the Polish spirit of celebrating togetherness, with families often gathering to partake in the baking process as a cherished tradition. The roll itself, when sliced, reveals a beautiful swirl pattern, a visual spectacle that complements its rich and robust flavor, making every bite a celebration of the age-old Polish culinary legacy.

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.