Poppy Seed Apple Yeast Buns

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Poppy Seed Apple Yeast Buns.

1. Step 1

   In a small saucepan, place the quartered potatoes and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cook, covered, until the potatoes are soft, about 10 to 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool for 15 to 20 minutes. Once cooled, pass the potatoes through a potato ricer and set aside.

2. Step 2

   In a small bowl, stir together 3/4 cup of lukewarm milk and the yeast. Let it sit until creamy or foamy, about 10 minutes.

3. Step 3

   In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the riced potatoes, yeast mixture, flour, sugar, softened butter, egg, lemon zest, and salt. Knead on low speed until the dough is smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl, about 5 minutes. The dough should be slightly sticky.

4. Step 4

   Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, turning it to coat. Cover the bowl with a damp dish towel and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size, about 2 hours.

5. Step 5

   While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing together the chopped apple, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon in a bowl. Stir until well combined, then cover and refrigerate the filling.

6. Step 6

   Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle measuring 12x14 inches. Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough, leaving about 1/2 inch of space on each long side. Sprinkle poppy seeds over the filling. Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other. Brush the seams with a little water and pinch to seal.

7. Step 7

   Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a large cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into 1 1/2-inch slices.

8. Step 8

   Arrange the slices loosely in a greased 10-inch round or 9x13-inch rectangular baking pan, cut-side down, leaving a little space between each. Cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm place until visibly doubled in size, about 45 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

10. Step 10

    Bake the buns in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 35 to 40 minutes.

11. Step 11

    Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by mixing confectioners' sugar with enough lemon juice to achieve a thick, spreadable consistency.

12. Step 12

    Once the buns are out of the oven, brush the frosting over them while they are still warm.