Classic German Potica with Poppy Seed Filling

How to Make Classic German Potica with Poppy Seed Filling at Home

Recipes may be AI-assisted. Always verify ingredients for allergies and dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup poppy seeds
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 stick butter
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

1. 1

   In a small saucepan, heat the milk until warm (about 110°F). Remove from heat and sprinkle the yeast over the milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. 2

   In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the frothy yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla extract.

3. 3

   Mix the ingredients until combined, then gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms.

4. 4

   Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

5. 5

   While the dough is rising, prepare the poppy seed filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the poppy seeds, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.

6. 6

   After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 1/4 inch thick). Spread the cooled poppy seed filling evenly over the dough.

7. 7

   Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seams to seal and place the log seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.

8. 8

   Cover the loaf with a damp cloth and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.

9. 9

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the potica for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

10. 10

    Remove the potica from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. 11

    Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving.