How to Make Beigli (Hungarian Poppy Seed & Walnut Rolls)
How to Make Beigli: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Stir it well and let it sit for 5-7 minutes until it becomes frothy. If it doesn’t bubble, your yeast may be expired, and it’s best to start over with fresh yeast.
Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. This mixture will form the base of your dough.
Cut in the butter: Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will give the dough its flakiness.
Add the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Add the yeast mixture into the wet ingredients and mix well.
Form the dough: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the flour mixture, stirring as you go. Once everything is combined, knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Let the dough rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Fillings
Poppy Seed Filling:
In a saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, milk, sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the filling thickens. Stir in the butter and lemon zest (if using), then remove from heat and let it cool completely.
Walnut Filling:
In a saucepan, combine the ground walnuts, milk, sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
If desired, add cinnamon to the mixture for added warmth and spice. Allow the walnut filling to cool to room temperature.
Step 3: Shape the Beigli Rolls
Divide the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion of dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Be sure to roll evenly to create a consistent thickness throughout.
Add the filling: Spread half of the cooled poppy seed or walnut filling onto each rectangle of dough. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
Roll up the dough: Carefully roll up the dough from one edge to the other, creating a tight log-like shape. Pinch the edges of the dough to seal the roll.
Step 4: Bake the Beigli
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Egg wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk for the egg wash. Brush the egg wash evenly over the top of each Beigli roll. This will give them a beautiful golden-brown finish.
Bake: Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheets, making sure they are evenly spaced. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the Beigli is golden and the crust is crisp. You can check for doneness by tapping the bottom of the roll—if it sounds hollow, it’s ready!
Cool: Let the Beigli cool on a wire rack before slicing. They will be much easier to cut once they have cooled completely.
Serving and Storing Beigli
Serving: Beigli is best served at room temperature, and it can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or as part of a festive spread. It pairs wonderfully with tea, coffee, or a glass of Hungarian Tokaji wine for a truly authentic experience.
Storage: Beigli will stay fresh for several days when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Why You’ll Love Beigli
Rich in flavor: With its buttery dough and flavorful, sweet fillings, Beigli is the perfect combination of textures and tastes.
Versatile: Whether you choose the poppy seed or walnut filling (or both!), you’ll find that this pastry appeals to all tastes.
A family tradition: Beigli brings people together, making it a wonderful way to share Hungarian culture and history with your loved ones.
Perfect for special occasions: While it’s often enjoyed during the holidays, Beigli is ideal for any time you want to make a special treat.
Making Beigli is a labor of love, but the results are well worth the effort. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday or simply craving something delicious, this Hungarian pastry is sure to impress. Enjoy!
