Golden Christmas Spirals: Festive Yeast Pastries with Walnut or Poppy Seed Filling

Introducing: Christmas Spirals 🎄✨

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Yield: 2 loaves

Description:

Indulge in the delightful aroma of Christmas with these heavenly spirals of joy! Perfect for festive gatherings, these delectable yeast pastries are a staple at my annual ‘tea’ for the moms at the nursery school. Bursting with flavors reminiscent of baklava, especially in the walnut version, these Christmas Spirals are guaranteed to enchant your taste buds and spread holiday cheer. Don’t be intimidated by the rising time; it’s well worth the wait!

Ingredients:

• 1 packet active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons warm milk
• 1 cup scalded milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• 3 cups all-purpose flour

For Poppy Seed Filling:

• 1 cup poppy seeds
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 egg white
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

For Walnut Filling:

• 1 cup ground walnuts
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the active dry yeast with 2 tablespoons of warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until foamy.

2. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, pour the scalded milk over the butter, sugar, and salt. Stir until the butter is melted, and then let the mixture cool slightly. Beat in the whole eggs and egg yolks.

3. Incorporate Yeast Mixture: Add the proofed yeast mixture to the large bowl and gradually add the flour. Beat until the dough is smooth and well combined.

4. Let the Dough Rise: Transfer the dough to a buttered bowl, turning to coat it. Cover the bowl and let the dough rise in a warm place for approximately 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Divide and Roll: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it in half. Preheat your oven to 350°F. On a floured surface, roll out each half into a 12 x 9-inch rectangle.

6. Fill and Roll: Spread each rectangle with your choice of filling—either the poppy seed or walnut filling. Starting with the long side, tightly roll the dough jelly-roll fashion, pinching the edges and ends closed.

7. Arrange and Bake: Place the rolls seam side down on a buttered baking sheet, leaving some space between them. Brush the rolls with beaten egg and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

For Poppy Seed Filling:

1. Prepare Poppy Seeds: Soak the poppy seeds in boiling water, covering them by 1 inch, for about 3 hours. Drain well using a fine sieve and spread them on a tea towel to dry for an additional hour.

2. Blend and Fill: In a food processor, combine the dried poppy seeds with honey, sugar, raisins, and butter. Blend until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat the egg white with cream of tartar until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the poppy seed mixture.

For Walnut Filling:

1. Simmer Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the ground walnuts, milk, sugar, and lemon zest. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the heat and let it cool before using as a filling.

With these detailed instructions, you’ll be able to create the most delightful Christmas Spirals that will surely become a cherished tradition in your home! Enjoy the festive flavors and the warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as you bake these delicious treats. Happy holidays! 🎅🥐