Poppy Seed Strudel Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

If you’ve ever craved a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between flaky, buttery pastry and a rich, nutty filling, then this poppy seed strudel recipe is about to become your new favorite. This traditional European treat boasts a delicate, golden crust wrapped around a luscious poppy seed mixture that’s subtly sweet and wonderfully aromatic.

Whether you’re serving it for a festive occasion or a cozy afternoon tea, poppy seed strudel offers a comforting taste of old-world charm that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

What makes this recipe truly special is the use of freshly ground poppy seeds, which infuse the strudel with an authentic flavor you won’t find in store-bought versions. The dough is tender yet sturdy enough to hold the filling without breaking, and the finishing touch of a light glaze gives it a beautiful shine and a hint of sweetness.

Ready to impress your family or guests with a classic treat? Let’s dive into this detailed recipe that will guide you step-by-step toward strudel perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This poppy seed strudel recipe stands out because it combines simplicity with tradition. The ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet the result feels decadent and special.

You’ll love how the buttery pastry contrasts with the moist, nutty poppy seed filling that has just the right amount of sweetness and texture.

Unlike many desserts that require complex techniques, this recipe breaks down the process into easy steps suitable for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Plus, it makes a beautiful centerpiece for any dessert table and pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just because, this strudel will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas and fill your guests with delight.

Ingredients

• For the Dough:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• For the Poppy Seed Filling:
• 1 cup poppy seeds, ground finely
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup raisins (optional)
• For Assembly & Topping:
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Rolling pin
• Food processor or spice grinder (for grinding poppy seeds)
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Small saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Kitchen towel or plastic wrap

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk with yeast and a pinch of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is activated.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg.
3. Mix everything together until a rough dough forms. Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1½ hours or until it doubles in size.
5. Make the Poppy Seed Filling: While the dough is rising, grind the poppy seeds finely using a food processor or spice grinder.
6. In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until dissolved.
7. Add the ground poppy seeds and raisins (if using) to the milk mixture and stir well. Allow the filling to cool completely.
8. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle about ¼ inch thick, roughly 12×16 inches.
9. Brush the surface of the dough generously with melted butter. Spread the cooled poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
10. Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, sealing the edges by pinching the dough together.
11. Place the strudel seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the top with more melted butter for a beautiful golden crust.
12. Cover loosely with a towel and let it rest for 20-30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
13. Bake the Strudel: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
14. Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Once cooled slightly, dust the strudel generously with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

“For the best flavor, grind fresh poppy seeds right before making the filling. Pre-ground poppy seeds can lose their aroma and taste over time.”

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and adjust liquid quantities as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
• Vegan Variation: Replace the milk with any plant-based milk, use maple syrup instead of honey, and substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds + 3 tbsp water).
• Add Nuts: Mix finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the poppy seed filling for added texture and flavor.
• Fruit Twist: Incorporate chopped dried apricots or cherries with the raisins for a fruity pop.
• Serving Warm: Reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a warm, melty treat.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Poppy seed strudel is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it alongside a few tasty accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream pairs beautifully with the warm, nutty filling.

For a lighter option, serve it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or black tea to complement the strudel’s subtle sweetness.

For a festive touch, drizzle a simple vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the top before serving. You can also pair it with fresh berries or a fruit compote to add a fresh, tangy contrast.

Looking for more delicious baking inspirations? Check out our Chocolate Chippy Pumpkin Bread Mix Vegan Recipe Made Easy or try the Best Vegan Chocolate Recipes for Decadent Desserts for more sweet treats.

Conclusion

This poppy seed strudel recipe is a wonderful celebration of traditional baking with a modern twist. Its flaky, buttery crust and rich poppy seed filling make it a dessert that’s both comforting and impressive.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at strudel for the first time, this recipe is approachable and yields delicious results every time.

With simple ingredients and clear instructions, you can create a stunning homemade strudel that will fill your kitchen with enticing aromas and bring smiles to every table. Don’t forget to experiment with the filling variations or pair it with your favorite hot beverage for the perfect treat.

For more delicious and easy recipes to try, explore our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide and Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals.

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