Lithuanian Poppy Seed Chocolate Rolls

Lithuanian poppy seed chocolate rolls are soft, fluffy yeast rolls filled with a sweet and nutty poppy seed paste, then drizzled with rich, melted dark chocolate. This traditional European pastry is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet treat with coffee. The combination of delicate dough, fragrant poppy seeds, and decadent chocolate makes these rolls an irresistible indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Lithuanian flavors – A traditional European pastry with a rich history.
• Soft and fluffy texture – Perfectly risen dough creates light, airy rolls.
• Nutty and sweet filling – The poppy seed and honey mixture adds deep, aromatic flavors.
• Chocolate drizzle – Dark chocolate enhances the richness of the pastry.
• Perfect for any occasion – Enjoy as a breakfast treat, dessert, or coffee-time snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

• all-purpose flour
• sugar
• active dry yeast
• warm milk
• melted butter
• egg
• salt

For the Filling:

• poppy seeds, ground
• honey
• milk

For the Glaze:

• dark chocolate, melted

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix yeast with warm milk and sugar. Let sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, melted butter, egg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth.
3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. In a small bowl, combine ground poppy seeds, honey, and milk to form a smooth paste.
5. Roll out the dough into a rectangle. Spread the poppy seed filling evenly over the surface.
6. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge to form a log. Slice into 10 equal rolls.
7. Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
9. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
10. Allow the rolls to cool, then drizzle with melted dark chocolate before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Servings: 10 rolls

Variations

• Orange Poppy Seed Rolls – Add orange zest to the filling for a citrusy twist.
• Walnut Poppy Seed Rolls – Mix finely chopped walnuts into the poppy seed filling for extra texture.
• Vanilla Glaze – Swap the chocolate drizzle for a vanilla sugar glaze.
• Cinnamon Poppy Seed Rolls – Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the filling for warmth and spice.
• White Chocolate Drizzle – Replace dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter contrast.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let sit at room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating and drizzling with chocolate.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes to refresh the texture.

FAQs

What makes Lithuanian poppy seed rolls unique?

These rolls feature a sweet, nutty poppy seed filling, a common ingredient in Eastern European baking, paired with a fluffy yeast dough.

Can I use pre-ground poppy seeds?

Yes, pre-ground poppy seeds save time, but freshly ground seeds offer a stronger, fresher flavor.

How do I grind poppy seeds at home?

Use a coffee grinder, spice grinder, or mortar and pestle to finely grind poppy seeds.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used without proofing. Reduce the rising time slightly.

Why is my dough too sticky?

If the dough is sticky, add a small amount of flour while kneading. Avoid adding too much, as it may dry out the rolls.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the shaped rolls overnight and bake them fresh in the morning.

What type of chocolate works best for the drizzle?

Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) complements the sweetness of the rolls, but milk or white chocolate can be used for a milder flavor.

How do I prevent my rolls from overbaking?

Check them at the 18-minute mark and cover with foil if they brown too quickly.

Can I make these rolls without chocolate?

Yes, they are delicious even without the chocolate drizzle. Try dusting them with powdered sugar instead.

What can I serve with these rolls?

Enjoy them with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Conclusion

Lithuanian poppy seed chocolate rolls are a delightful combination of soft, buttery dough, sweet poppy seed filling, and rich chocolate drizzle. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon treat, these rolls bring traditional flavors to your table with a touch of indulgence. Try different variations and enjoy a homemade pastry that’s both comforting and elegant!