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Classic Polish Makowiec Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/4 cup golden raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
- 1/4 cup poppy seeds
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup lukewarm water

Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer with dough hook attachment
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in lukewarm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and poppy seeds.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, warm milk, eggs, egg yolk, honey, and vanilla extract.

4. Add the yeast mixture to the wet ingredients and whisk until well combined.

5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing with a dough hook attachment until a smooth dough forms.

6. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.

7. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.

8. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

9. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle shape.

10. Spread the golden raisins and chopped almonds over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

11. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the long side, and pinch the edges to seal.

12. Place the roll on the prepared baking sheet and brush with beaten egg.

13. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.

14. Let the makowiec cool completely before slicing and serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
12 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 210mg
Sugar: 16g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almonds can be substituted with walnuts or pecans.
- Golden raisins can be substituted with regular raisins or dried cranberries.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Variations:
- Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese or ricotta cheese to the filling.
- Use different types of nuts or dried fruit in the filling.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the yeast is fresh and not expired for the best rise.
- Knead the dough well to develop gluten and create a smooth texture.
- Let the dough rise in a warm place, such as a turned-off oven with the light on.
- Brush the roll with beaten egg for a shiny and golden crust.

Storage instructions:
Store the cooled makowiec in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat, wrap a slice of makowiec in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the sliced makowiec on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprinkle of poppy seeds or chopped nuts.

Pairings:
Serve with a cup of hot tea or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a fruit salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it becomes smooth.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it becomes smooth.
- If the dough doesn't rise, make sure the yeast is fresh and the dough is in a warm place.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and all surfaces and utensils that come into contact with the dough to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Food history:
Makowiec is a traditional Polish pastry made with poppy seeds and often served during holidays and special occasions.

Flavor profiles:
Sweet, nutty, and slightly earthy from the poppy seeds.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the sliced makowiec on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a cup of hot tea or coffee.

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Region: Polish

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Buttery, Cinnamon, Rich, Cinnamon-Spiced