Mom’s Poppy Seed Roll (Roulette) Recipe

Indulge in traditional Russian poppy seed rolls (Roulette) with this authentic recipe. Soft, sweet dough filled with ground poppy seeds, raisins and sweetened condensed milk. Perfect for breakfast, brunch or dessert.

Ingredients

1. 1 1/3 cups 1% milk
2. 1 Tbsp active dry yeast (Red Star Brand recommended)
3. 2 large eggs
4. 3/4 cup sugar
5. 1 stick (8 Tbsp) salted butter (or unsalted butter + 1/4 tsp salt)
6. 4 cups bleached all-purpose flour (Canadian flour works well)
7. 1/2 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla powder
8. 1 cup poppy seeds
9. 1 egg white (for egg wash)
10. 8 oz sweetened condensed milk
11. 1 cup raisins

Instructions

1. Activate Yeast: Heat milk in the microwave until lukewarm. Combine milk, yeast, 2 Tbsp sugar, and 1 cup flour in a large mixing bowl. Mix until flour is well-blended. Let stand in a warm oven (100°F) for 1/2 hour or at room temperature for 1 hour. Dough should rise to 1.5 times its volume.
2. Mix Dough: Melt butter; add to dough. Add 2 eggs, remaining sugar, vanilla, and 1 cup flour. Whisk together.
3. Knead Dough: Using a dough hook (speed 2), gradually add remaining 2 cups flour. Mix for 15 minutes. Dough is ready when it no longer sticks to the bowl.
4. Rise Dough: Place dough in a large bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 2.5 hours (until 3-4 times its volume).
5. Prepare Poppy Seeds:
6. Fill a saucepan with poppy seeds and water. Drain water and repeat.
7. Add 3 cups water; simmer (don’t boil). Let sit for 30 minutes. Repeat.
8. Drain and grind poppy seeds using a food grinder or coffee grinder.
9. Mix ground poppy seeds with 8 oz sweetened condensed milk.
10. Assemble Rolls:
11. Divide dough into 4 equal pieces.
12. Roll out each piece into an 11″ x 8″ oval shape.
13. Spread 1/2 cup poppy seed mixture and 30-40 raisins over the dough.
14. Roll gently and place on a lined baking sheet.
15. Brush tops with egg wash (1 egg white, 1/2 tsp sour cream, 1/2 tsp sugar).
16. Let rise for 1 hour (or 30 minutes in a 100°F oven).
17. Bake: Preheat oven to 360°F. Bake for 28-30 minutes until deep golden.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Traditional Russian flavor: Authentic poppy seed roll recipe with sweet and tender dough.
2. Easy to follow: Step-by-step instructions for beginners.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite fillings or toppings.
4. Impressive presentation: Perfect for special occasions or gatherings.

Tips

1. Use quality ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality flour ensure better results.
2. Don’t overmix: Gentle mixing preserves dough texture.
3. Adjust poppy seed grinding: Use a fine grinding plate or coffee grinder for best results.
4. Let it rise: Patiently wait for dough to rise for optimal flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Dried fruit: Replace raisins with cranberries or cherries.
2. Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or almonds to poppy seed mixture.
3. Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate on top of rolls.
4. Orange zest: Add grated orange zest to dough for extra flavor.

FAQs

1. Why did my dough not rise?: Check yeast expiration, ensure warm environment, and avoid overmixing.
2. Can I use instant yeast?: Yes, but reduce yeast amount by 1/4 tsp.
3. How do I store leftovers?: Wrap rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Serving and Suggestions

1. Dust with powdered sugar: Before serving.
2. Serve warm: Freshly baked or reheated.
3. Pair with beverages: Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
4. Perfect for: Breakfast, brunch, or dessert.