Latvian Poppy Seed Rolls
Magoņu Maizītes
Soft and slightly sweet yeast rolls filled with a rich poppy seed mixture, often topped with a chocolate glaze. These are a beloved pastry in Latvia, perfect with coffee or tea.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour(plus extra for dusting)
- 200 ml Warm milk
- 11 g Dried active yeast
- 80 g Granulated sugar(for dough)
- 3 g Salt
- 100 g Butter(softened)
- 1 large Egg(for dough)
- 150 g Poppy seeds
- 75 g Granulated sugar(for filling)
- 100 g Dark chocolate(for glaze)
- 25 g Butter(for glaze)
- 1 large Egg(beaten, for egg wash)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let stand for 10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- 2
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Soak poppy seeds in hot water for 10-15 minutes, then drain thoroughly. Grind the poppy seeds (if not already ground) and mix with the 75g of sugar.
- 3
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
- 4
Roll up the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log. Cut the log into 1.5-2 cm thick slices. Place the slices cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 15-20 minutes.
- 5
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the tops of the rolls with the beaten egg wash. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- 6
While the rolls are baking, melt the dark chocolate and 25g butter in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water. Stir until smooth.
- 7
Once the rolls have cooled slightly, drizzle with the chocolate glaze. Let cool completely before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- ✓For a finer poppy seed texture, grind them just before use.
- ✓If you don't have poppy seeds, a mixture of finely chopped nuts and sugar can be used as an alternative filling.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of honey to the poppy seed filling for extra sweetness.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar instead of chocolate glaze.