Makovnjača, a beloved dessert in many Central and Eastern European homes, is a tender, slightly sweet dough filled with a rich, aromatic poppy seed filling. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just because, this traditional recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.
Ingredients for the Dough:
- 400 grams of flour
- 1 packet of instant yeast (Di-Go or similar)
- 2 egg yolks
- A pinch of salt
- 200–250 ml of lukewarm milk
- 80 grams of butter
- Zest of one lemon
For the Filling:
- 400 grams of poppy seeds
- 150 grams of sugar
- 300 ml of milk
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
Preparing the Dough:
Start by sifting the flour into a large mixing bowl. Add the instant yeast and a pinch of salt, mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly. In a separate bowl, combine the lukewarm milk, egg yolks, melted butter, and grated lemon zest. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the flour mixture, kneading until a smooth, elastic dough forms.
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. This typically takes about an hour.
Making the Filling:
While the dough is rising, prepare the poppy seed filling. Combine the sugar and poppy seeds in a heatproof bowl. Heat the milk until it just begins to boil, then pour it over the poppy seed mixture. Stir in the butter and vanilla sugar until everything is well combined. Let the filling cool completely before using it.
Assembling the Makovnjača:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and divide it into two equal portions. Roll each portion out on a floured surface into a rectangular shape, about 1 cm thick. Spread half of the cooled poppy seed filling evenly over each piece of dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Carefully roll each piece into a tight log, starting from the longer side. Pinch the seams and ends to seal the rolls. Place the rolls seam-side down on a greased baking tray or a tray lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with a towel and let them rise again for 20–30 minutes.
Baking the Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Bake the rolls for approximately 40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the kitchen is filled with their irresistible aroma.
Serving Suggestions:
Let the Makovnjača cool slightly before slicing into thick pieces. This dessert is delightful on its own or with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, dust the rolls with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure the filling is completely cool before spreading it on the dough to prevent it from softening or tearing.
- If you prefer a slightly sweeter dough, add a tablespoon of sugar to the flour mixture.
- For a shiny crust, brush the rolls with an egg wash before baking.
Makovnjača is more than just a dessert—it's a symbol of tradition and family. Each bite offers a comforting blend of soft, buttery dough and rich, sweet poppy seed filling. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a piece of culinary heritage, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table.
