Every Christmas, the aroma of freshly baked goods fills Polish homes, creating a cozy and festive atmosphere. One staple in Polish Christmas baking is the Makowa Strudel, also known as Poppy Seed Strudel. This delightful dessert perfectly blends the nutty flavor of poppy seeds with sweet notes, wrapped in a flaky pastry. If you want to bring a piece of Polish Christmas tradition to your table, follow this recipe for Makowa Strudel and treat yourself to a delicious treat that will surely impress your guests.
**Makowa Strudel – Poppy Seed Strudel**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup ground poppy seeds
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup raisins
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes, and using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, sour cream, and egg until well combined. Pour this mixture into the flour-butter mixture and stir until the dough starts to come together.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently until it forms a smooth ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. In a saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, milk, honey, sugar, and vanilla extract. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll out the chilled dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
7. Sprinkle the raisins over the poppy seed filling.
8. Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough into a log, tucking in the sides as you go to prevent the filling from spilling out.
9. Transfer the strudel to the prepared baking sheet and brush the top with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the strudel is golden brown and crispy.
11. Remove the strudel from the oven and let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar.
12. Slice the Makowa Strudel into portions and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures in every bite!
Indulge in the delightful Makowa Strudel to experience a taste of Polish Christmas tradition and impress your family and friends with this delicious treat. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, or whenever you crave a cozy and sweet dessert. Happy baking!
