Beigli Poppy Seed Recipe – Soft & Flaky Hungarian Pastry

Sometimes we crave something that’s not just delicious but also has a touch of tradition and comfort. This Beigli Poppy Seed Recipe, a famous Hungarian pastry, brings warmth and joy with every bite. Filled with rich, nutty, and slightly sweet poppy seed filling, it’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a cozy weekend treat.

This recipe will guide you through making a soft, golden pastry that’s rolled to perfection and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a beginner baker or someone looking to master a classic dessert, this guide is for you.

Discover the Perfect Beigli Poppy Seed Recipe

Baking the Beigli Poppy Seed Recipe is easier than it looks! This classic Hungarian pastry features a soft, golden crust wrapped around a rich, nutty poppy seed filling that’s slightly sweet and irresistibly aromatic. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or cozy weekends, this recipe guides you step by step to create a dessert that looks stunning and tastes amazing.

With simple ingredients, careful rolling, and the right techniques, you can make a Beigli that’s soft, flaky, and perfectly filled every time. Follow along, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked pastry.

Ingredients for This Recipe

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 package (7g) instant yeast
• ¾ cup warm milk
• 1 egg, beaten (for dough)
• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the poppy seed filling:

• 1 cup poppy seeds, ground
• ½ cup sugar
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Beigli Poppy Seed Recipe – Easy Baking Guide

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Add softened butter, beaten egg, salt, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the flour to form a soft, elastic dough. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
   
2. Prepare the Poppy Seed Filling:
   In a small saucepan, heat milk and butter over low heat. Add sugar, lemon zest, and ground poppy seeds. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
   
3. Shape the Beigli:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Spread half of the poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving about 1 inch at the edges.
   
4. Roll and Seal:
   Carefully roll the dough from one end to form a tight log. Pinch the edges to seal and place it seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with the second portion.
   
5. Brush and Bake:
   Brush the tops with beaten egg for a glossy finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the Beigli to cool completely before slicing.

Tips and Variations

• For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the poppy seeds before grinding.
• You can add raisins or chopped nuts to the filling for extra texture.
• Substitute milk with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
• For a sweeter dough, increase sugar by 1–2 tablespoons.
• Store Beigli in an airtight container; it tastes even better the next day.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approx.)

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Carbs: 30g
• Protein: 5g

Recipe Notes

• Make sure the dough is soft but not sticky; adjust flour as needed.
• Cool the poppy seed filling before spreading to prevent the dough from getting soggy.
• Rolling tightly ensures a neat spiral and prevents filling from leaking during baking.

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare Beigli in advance?
A: Yes, you can make it a day before and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q: Can I freeze Beigli?
A: Absolutely! Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before slicing.

Q: Can I use a different filling?
A: Yes, you can try walnut, apricot, or chocolate filling for variations.

Conclusion

Beigli with poppy seed filling is more than just a pastry; it’s a celebration of tradition and flavor. With its soft, golden crust and rich, aromatic filling, it’s a dessert that brings joy to any table. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a Beigli that’s visually appealing, delicious, and satisfying for both family and friends. Perfect for special occasions or cozy weekends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.