📝 About This Recipe
This classic Ashkenazi-style Mohnkuchen features a tender, golden yeast dough wrapped around a rich, citrus-scented poppy seed filling. Completely dairy-free (Pareve), this recipe relies on high-quality oil and almond milk to achieve a melt-in-your-mouth texture that rivals any traditional bakery. It is a nostalgic masterpiece of Central European Jewish baking, offering a perfect balance of earthy seeds, sweet honey, and bright lemon zest.
🥗 Ingredients
The Sweet Yeast Dough
- 3 1/2 cups All-purpose flour (sifted)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons Active dry yeast (one standard packet)
- 1/2 cup Warm water (105-110 degrees Fahrenheit)
- 1/3 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup Neutral vegetable oil (canola or grapeseed work best)
- 1 large Egg (at room temperature)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
The Luscious Poppy Filling
- 2 cups Whole poppy seeds (freshly ground in a spice grinder or blender)
- 3/4 cup Unsweetened almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
- 1/2 cup Honey (clover or wildflower)
- 1/4 cup Golden raisins (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (pure)
- 2 tablespoons Apricot jam (for shine and moisture)
Glaze and Finish
- 1 Egg yolk (beaten with 1 tsp water for egg wash)
- 1/2 cup Powdered sugar (optional for dusting)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
In a small bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of the sugar into the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and active.
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2
In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center.
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3
Pour the yeast mixture, oil, and egg into the well. Using a dough hook or a sturdy spoon, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
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4
Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5-6 minutes on medium speed in a mixer until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticking to your fingers.
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5
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
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6
While the dough rises, prepare the filling: Combine the ground poppy seeds, almond milk, and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat.
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7
Simmer the filling, stirring constantly, for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens into a spreadable paste. Remove from heat.
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8
Stir in the raisins, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and apricot jam. Let the filling cool completely before using; it will thicken further as it cools.
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9
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
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10
Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, approximately 12x16 inches and 1/4 inch thick.
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11
Spread the cooled poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
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12
Starting from the long side, roll the dough up tightly like a jelly roll. Pinch the seam and the ends firmly to seal in the filling.
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13
Place the roll seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Cover loosely and let rise for another 30 minutes.
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14
Brush the top and sides of the roll with the egg wash. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the crust is a deep golden brown and sounds hollow when lightly tapped.
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15
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This allows the filling to set so you get clean, beautiful spirals.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always grind your poppy seeds; whole unground seeds will result in a gritty texture and less flavor. If your dough is too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time, but be careful not to over-flour or the roll will be dry. Ensure the filling is completely cool before spreading, otherwise it will melt the dough's structure and cause a soggy interior. For the best flavor, use a high-quality honey and fresh lemon zest. To prevent the roll from bursting in the oven, you can prick the top a few times with a toothpick before baking to let steam escape.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve thick slices alongside a glass of hot tea with lemon for a classic afternoon treat. Pair with a dollop of dairy-free whipped coconut cream for an extra indulgent dessert. Enjoy a slice toasted the next morning with a thin spread of plum butter (Lekvar). Accompanied by a glass of chilled dessert wine or a strong cup of black coffee. Dust lightly with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful, snowy presentation.