Slovenský Makový Závín (Slovak Poppy Seed Roll)
A sweet, yeasted dough rolled with a rich, spiced poppy seed filling. This pastry is a beloved treat, especially during holidays and special occasions.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour
- 200 ml Milk(lukewarm)
- 70 g Granulated sugar
- 70 g Butter(softened)
- 2 large Egg yolks
- 7 g Active dry yeast
- 1 pinch Salt
- 250 g Ground poppy seeds
- 150 ml Milk(for filling, warm)
- 100 g Granulated sugar(for filling)
- 50 g Butter(for filling)
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- 1 egg Egg wash(beaten with 1 tbsp milk)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
For the dough: In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and 1 tsp sugar in lukewarm milk. Let stand for 10 minutes until foamy.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, softened butter, egg yolks, salt, and the yeast mixture. Knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- 3
For the filling: In a saucepan, combine ground poppy seeds, warm milk, sugar, butter, and lemon zest. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly. Let cool.
- 4
Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle (about 30x40 cm).
- 5
Spread the cooled poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- 6
Carefully roll up the dough from the long side to form a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal.
- 7
Place the roll seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- 8
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the top of the roll with egg wash.
- 9
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let cool completely before slicing.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the milk for the dough is lukewarm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly.
- ✓Don't overcook the poppy seed filling, as it can become dry.
- ✓For a shinier finish, you can brush the roll with a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved) after baking.
🔄 Variations
- Add chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds) to the poppy seed filling.
- Use a combination of poppy seeds and ground walnuts for a different flavor profile.
- For a richer dough, you can add an extra egg yolk.