Austrian Mohnzelten with Sweet Poppy Seed Filling

Ingredients

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) ground almonds 1/2 cup (60g) ground almonds
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• For the filling: For the filling:
• 1 cup (150g) ground poppy seeds 1 cup (150g) ground poppy seeds
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• For the glaze: For the glaze:
• 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk 1 tablespoon milk

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 14g (5g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 27g (12g sugars)
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, granulated sugar, and salt for the dough.
2. 2.
   Add the cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients and use your fingertips to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk and egg. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough gently until it comes together.
4. 4.
   Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. 5.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling. In a saucepan, combine the ground poppy seeds, granulated sugar, milk, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes together, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
6. 6.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
8. 8.
   Spread the cooled poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. 9.
   Carefully roll up the dough, starting from one of the longer sides, into a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal.
10. 10.
    Cut the log into 1-inch thick slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
11. 11.
    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the Mohnzelten turn golden brown.
12. 12.
    While the pastries are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
13. 13.
    Once the Mohnzelten are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the warm pastries.
14. 14.
    Serve the Mohnzelten warm or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground Poppy Seeds — Ensure that the poppy seeds are finely ground for a smooth filling. You can grind them at home using a spice grinder or purchase pre-ground poppy seeds.
• Ground Almonds — If you cannot find ground almonds, you can grind blanched almonds in a food processor until finely ground. Be careful not to over-process, as it may turn into almond butter.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor of the poppy seed filling, toast the poppy seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before using them.
• If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can add a drop of vanilla extract or almond extract to the powdered sugar and milk mixture.
• For a decorative touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar or crushed almonds on top of the glazed Mohnzelten before serving.
• These pastries are best enjoyed on the day they are made, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Mohnzelten warm or at room temperature. They are perfect as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also enjoy them as a dessert after a delicious Austrian meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Mohnzelten on a serving platter, allowing the glaze to slightly drip down the sides. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or crushed almonds for an elegant touch.