Central American Makovnjača

Ingredients

In this Central American adaptation of Makovnjača, the traditional Croatian poppy seed roll is infused with tropical flavors. The original recipe is enhanced with the addition of coconut and pineapple, giving it a unique twist. These ingredients add a touch of sweetness and tanginess, perfectly complementing the nutty flavor of the poppy seeds. The result is a delightful fusion of Croatian and Central American cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Trnovečka makovnjača, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (120g) ground poppy seeds 1 cup (120g) ground poppy seeds
• 1/2 cup (50g) shredded coconut 1/2 cup (50g) shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup (75g) diced pineapple 1/2 cup (75g) diced pineapple
• 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Zest of 1 orange Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted (for brushing) 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 kJ
• Fat: 14g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
• Carbohydrates: 42g (Sugar: 14g)
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. 3.
   Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
4. 4.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. 6.
   In the meantime, prepare the filling by combining the ground poppy seeds, shredded coconut, diced pineapple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest in a bowl.
7. 7.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. 8.
   Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
9. 9.
   Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. 10.
    Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
11. 11.
    Place the rolled log onto the prepared baking sheet and brush it with melted butter.
12. 12.
    Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
13. 13.
    Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar.
14. 14.
    Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Poppy seeds — Make sure to grind the poppy seeds before using them in the filling. This will enhance their flavor and ensure a smooth texture.
• Pineapple — Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor. If fresh pineapple is not available, you can use canned pineapple, but make sure to drain it well before using.

Tips & Tricks

• If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can add a bit more brown sugar to the poppy seed mixture.
• For an extra tropical touch, you can sprinkle some toasted coconut on top of the pastry before baking.
• Serve the Central American Makovnjača with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Serving advice

Central American Makovnjača is best served warm or at room temperature. Slice it into individual portions and serve it on a dessert plate or a decorative platter. Dust each slice with powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of Central American Makovnjača, you can garnish each slice with a small pineapple wedge or a sprinkle of shredded coconut. Serve it on a colorful plate or a wooden serving board to showcase the vibrant flavors of Central America.