Poppy seed rolls are a delightful, soft, and flavorful treat that make the perfect addition to any breakfast or brunch. This recipe uses simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, yeast, and poppy seeds to create fluffy, slightly sweet rolls with a delicious nutty crunch. The poppy seeds add a distinct flavor and texture that pairs wonderfully with the soft dough. Whether you’re preparing these for a family gathering or enjoying them for yourself, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including rising time)
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds (plus more for topping)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and set the mixture aside for about 5-10 minutes. The yeast should foam up, signaling that it’s activated and ready to use.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Once the yeast mixture is foamy, pour it into the dry ingredients. Add the melted butter and eggs to the bowl. Stir everything together using a wooden spoon or dough hook attachment if using a stand mixer.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Once the ingredients are mixed, turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and begin kneading it for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky but still workable. If the dough is too sticky, add a small amount of flour, one tablespoon at a time.
4. Let the Dough Rise:
- Once kneaded, form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Rolls:
- After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Then, divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and place them on a greased baking sheet, ensuring they are close but not touching. Alternatively, you can place them in a greased 9×13-inch pan for a more compact arrangement.
6. Add the Poppy Seeds:
- Gently brush the tops of the rolls with a little melted butter and sprinkle the poppy seeds over them, making sure each roll gets a generous coating.
7. Second Rise:
- Cover the rolls again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes. This second rise will help the rolls become even fluffier and lighter.
8. Bake the Rolls:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the rolls have risen, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. You can check the rolls by tapping on the bottom—if they sound hollow, they are done.
9. Cool and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, or with a pat of butter.
Poppy seed rolls are a simple yet elegant treat that can be served on any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a holiday brunch, or a family gathering. The soft texture of the rolls, combined with the slight crunch of the poppy seeds, creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture. The dough is easy to work with, and the rising time allows the yeast to work its magic, making the rolls light and airy. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you’ll have freshly baked poppy seed rolls that everyone will love.
Enjoy these delicious homemade rolls with a cup of coffee or tea, or use them to complement your favorite savory dishes. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility, allowing you to modify the filling or glaze to your liking. You can also experiment with different seeds, like sesame or sunflower, for a fun twist. Whether you make them for yourself or share them with others, these poppy seed rolls are bound to impress and satisfy.