Hungarian Beigli – Christmas Poppy Seed & Walnut Roll

Beigli is one of Hungary’s most beloved Christmas pastries. These beautiful rolled cakes feature a tender, buttery yeast dough wrapped around a rich filling of either sweet poppy seeds or ground walnuts. Once baked, the rolls develop a delicate golden crust and a wonderfully fragrant interior.

Traditionally prepared during the Christmas season, Hungarian Beigli is more than just a dessert—it is a cherished part of the holiday table and a recipe often passed down through generations.

What Is Hungarian Beigli?

Beigli is a traditional Hungarian rolled pastry most commonly prepared with two classic fillings: poppy seed (mákos) and walnut (diós).

The dough is rolled thin, spread generously with the filling, and carefully rolled into a log. The finished pastry is typically brushed with egg before baking, creating its characteristic glossy, golden appearance.

A perfectly baked Beigli has a tender pastry surrounding a dense, flavorful filling, with beautiful swirls visible in every slice.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 packet active dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Walnut Filling

• 2 cups finely ground walnuts
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ cup raisins, optional

Poppy Seed Filling

• 2 cups finely ground poppy seeds
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ¼ cup raisins, optional

For the Finish

• 1 egg, beaten
• Powdered sugar, for serving