Milk and Poppy Seed Buns

Buttermilk and poppy seed rolls - a delicious and comforting recipe, perfect for any meal!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rest time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Number of servings: 12 rolls

The history of rolls is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. These baked goods fill festive tables and symbolize hospitality. Buttermilk and poppy seed rolls are a soft and fluffy variant that will surely become your family's favorite. I invite you to put on an apron, prepare for a pleasant experience in the kitchen, and let yourself be carried away by the aromas and textures of this recipe.

Ingredients

- 500 g flour
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 150 ml warm water (about 40-45 degrees Celsius)
- 1 tablespoon oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 1 egg (for the dough)
- 200 ml buttermilk
- Salt (to taste)
- 50 g poppy seeds (for sprinkling)
- 1 egg (for brushing)

Preparation steps

1. Activating the yeast
Start by preparing the yeast. In a small bowl, add the fresh yeast, sugar, and warm water. Gently mix and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This step is crucial to activate the yeast, ensuring that your rolls will be fluffy and airy.

2. Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, place the flour. Make a well in the center of the flour, where you will add the activated yeast mixture. Add the egg, buttermilk, oil, and a pinch of salt. Using a spatula or your hands, mix the ingredients until a wet dough forms.

3. Kneading the dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands or the surface. If the dough is too sticky, you can gradually add a little flour, but don't overdo it to avoid making the rolls heavy.

4. First rising
Place the dough in a bowl greased with oil and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 50 minutes or until it doubles in size. It is important to respect this step, as the yeast will act and give the rolls the desired airy consistency.

5. Shaping the rolls
After the dough has risen, place it on a work surface and divide it into 12 equal portions. With oiled hands, shape round rolls and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Leave space between the rolls, as they will expand during baking.

6. Second rising
Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rise again for 30 minutes. During this time, preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. This step will ensure a perfect texture and generous volume.

7. Brushing and sprinkling with poppy seeds
Beat the remaining egg and brush each roll with a pastry brush. Generously sprinkle poppy seeds on top, giving them a crunchy note and an attractive appearance.

8. Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the rolls for 30 minutes, or until golden and with a beautiful crust. A trick to check if they are baked is to tap them lightly on the bottom; if they sound hollow, they are done!

9. Cooling and serving
Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool on a rack. These buttermilk and poppy seed rolls are delicious served warm, but also at room temperature. You can enjoy them plain, with butter, or alongside fresh cheese.

Practical tips

- Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps activate the yeast and achieve an even dough.
- Yeast: If using dry yeast, the required amount is about 10 g. It does not require prior activation, so you can add it directly to the flour.
- Variations: You can add various seeds, such as sesame or cumin, to diversify the flavor of the rolls. You can also replace part of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier variant.
- Serving: These rolls pair perfectly with a warm soup or a main dish. You can also serve them with jam or honey for a delicious breakfast.

Nutritional benefits

Buttermilk and poppy seed rolls are a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. Buttermilk adds a considerable amount of calcium and probiotics, benefiting digestive health. Poppy seeds are rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, but the result will be slightly different. Buttermilk provides a fluffier texture and a tangier taste.

- Can I freeze the rolls?
Absolutely! These rolls freeze very well. Make sure to let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight bag for freezing. You can thaw them at room temperature or in the preheated oven.

I encourage you to try this recipe for buttermilk and poppy seed rolls at home. Surely, the way the house fills with aromas will turn cooking into a true pleasure! Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent around the table with loved ones!