What type of yeast is best for making poppy seed buns?

Instant yeast is ideal for poppy seed buns because it helps the dough rise faster and produces a softer, fluffier texture. You can add it directly to the dry ingredients without proofing. If you only have active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm water and let it proof for 5-10 minutes before mixing. Active dry yeast requires a longer rising time and may need about 25% more yeast than instant yeast to achieve the same results.

How do I know when my poppy seed buns dough is ready to bake?

Gently press the dough with your finger about half an inch deep. If the indentation slowly springs back but still leaves a slight dent, the dough is properly proofed and ready for baking. If it fills back quickly, it needs more time to rise. If the indentation remains and doesn’t bounce back at all, the dough is over-proofed and may collapse during baking.

Can I substitute poppy seeds with another type of seed in this bun recipe?

Yes, you can swap poppy seeds for other seeds like sesame or caraway to vary the flavor and texture. However, poppy seeds add a distinctive nutty crunch and subtle taste that complements sweet buns well. When substituting, use the same quantity called for in the recipe to maintain the right balance in texture.

How should I store poppy seed buns to keep them fresh longer?

Store poppy seed buns in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. To refresh frozen buns, thaw at room temperature and warm them briefly in the oven to restore softness.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when baking poppy seed buns?

Avoid using outdated yeast, which can prevent dough from rising properly. Don’t over-proof the dough; over-proofed buns can collapse after baking and have a dense texture. Also, ensure you knead the dough well to develop gluten for a light crumb. Lastly, don’t skip brushing the buns with an egg wash before baking if you want a glossy, golden finish.

Poppy Seed Buns Recipe For Soft Fluffy Buns You Will Love

Name: Poppy Seed Buns
Prep time: 2 h 40 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 3 h 40 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 1 cup warm whole milk; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dried or instant yeast; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup sugar; 4 large egg yolks; 2 tablespoons sour cream; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3 ounces softened butter (room temperature); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup dried poppy seeds; 4 cups water for cooking seeds; 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk (about half a can); 2 egg whites; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups powdered sugar; 3 to 4 tablespoons milk; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Description

🍩 Sweet Buns with Poppy Seeds deliver soft, fluffy texture combined with a rich, flavorful filling that’s a classic comfort treat.
🍯 This recipe uses sweet yeast dough and a smooth poppy seed filling, finished with a sweet glaze, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup warm whole milk

2 1/4 teaspoons active dried or instant yeast

3 cups all-purpose flour

1/3 cup sugar

4 large egg yolks

2 tablespoons sour cream

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

3 ounces softened butter (room temperature)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup dried poppy seeds

4 cups water for cooking seeds

7 ounces sweetened condensed milk (about half a can)

2 egg whites

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 cups powdered sugar

3 to 4 tablespoons milk

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1-Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 24 by 24-inch square on a floured surface.

2-Spread the poppy seed filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-2 inch edge free.

3-Fold the dough into thirds like a letter, and pinch the seam closed.

4-Cut the folded dough into 16 strips widthwise.

5-Pull each strip to lengthen it slightly, twist it twice, then join and pinch the ends to seal.

6-Place the shaped buns on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them evenly, and cover to let rise again until doubled.

7-Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the buns for about 20 minutes, until golden and reaching an internal temperature of 200°F (93°C).

8-Mix the glaze ingredients until smooth, then dip the warm bun tops in it, letting excess drip off before placing on a rack to dry.

Notes

⏳ Allow full proofing for soft, fluffy buns with light texture.
🌱 Properly grind poppy seeds twice for a smooth, rich filling consistency.
🍽️ Dip buns while warm for the best glaze adherence and shine.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Proofing time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Eastern European

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bun
Calories: 309 kcal
Sugar: 27 g
Sodium: 76 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Carbohydrates: 47 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 7 g
Cholesterol: 67 mg

Keywords: Sweet buns, Poppy seed buns, Yeast dough buns, Soft fluffy treats