This holiday season, immerse yourself in the magical flavors of Czech Republic Christmas baking with a delightful treat known as Makové Trubičky, or Poppy Seed Tubes. These sweet, nutty pastries are a beloved tradition in Czech households, enjoyed during festive gatherings and cozy evenings by the fire. The combination of crunchy pastry and a rich poppy seed filling will transport you to a winter wonderland of warm, comforting flavors. So, gather your ingredients and let’s bake up some Makové Trubičky to bring a touch of Czech Christmas spirit into your home.
**Makové Trubičky Poppy Seed Tubes**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup ground poppy seeds
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Powdered sugar (for dusting)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and chilled butter cubes. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
– Add the sour cream and sugar to the bowl, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Make the Poppy Seed Filling:**
– In a small saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, honey, milk, and chopped nuts. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and forms a paste-like consistency. Set aside to cool.
3. **Assemble the Poppy Seed Tubes:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a thin rectangle. Cut the dough into smaller squares or rectangles, depending on your desired tube size.
– Place a spoonful of the poppy seed filling along the center of each piece of dough. Fold the sides over the filling and pinch the edges to seal, forming tube-like shapes.
4. **Bake the Makové Trubičky:**
– Brush the tops of the poppy seed tubes with the beaten egg to create a golden finish.
– Arrange the filled tubes on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once baked, allow the Makové Trubičky to cool slightly before dusting them with powdered sugar.
– These delightful poppy seed tubes are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, surrounded by loved ones in the cozy ambiance of the holiday season.
Indulge in the aromatic flavors of Makové Trubičky Poppy Seed Tubes this Christmas and let the sweet essence of Czech tradition fill your home with warmth and joy. Share these delectable pastries with family and friends as you create treasured memories together in the spirit of the season. Happy baking!
