Potica (pronounced poh-TEE-tsah) is a traditional Slovenian rolled pastry that has captured hearts worldwide with its deliciously rich filling and tender dough. Especially popular during Christmas, this festive treat symbolizes heritage, family, and celebration. Whether you have Slovenian roots or are simply a culinary enthusiast looking for new traditions, potica is a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
Why Potica is a Christmas Must-Have
Potica is more than a dessert; it’s a centerpiece of tradition and joy. Its unique combination of flavors and textures brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to holiday celebrations. Whether shared at family gatherings or given as a heartfelt gift, potica embodies the spirit of Christmas.
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Potica: A Slovenian Holiday Classic
Course: DessertCuisine: SlovenianDifficulty: Easy30
servings30
minutes1
hour306
kcalThis Christmas, embrace the tradition of baking potica. With its rich history, endless customization options, and irresistible taste, it’s a dessert that will make your holiday season truly special.
Ingredients
- Dough:
5 cups all-purpose flour, divided
¼ cup white sugar
1 ½ teaspoons active dry yeast
¼ cup milk, lukewarm
1 cup butter, softened
6 large egg yolks
1 â…“Â cups milkÂ
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons olive oil, or as needed
- Filling:
1 cup butter, melted
1 cup honey
1 ½ cups raisins
1 ½ cups chopped walnuts
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Directions
Make the dough: Combine 3 tablespoons flour and 1 teaspoon sugar in a small mixing bowl. Add yeast, then add 1/4 cup warm mix and mix well; let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.- Beat butter with remaining sugar in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer until creamy. Add egg yolks, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add yeast mixture, 1 1/3 cups milk, and salt; mix well.
- Add remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. When dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
- Lightly oil a large bowl. Place dough into the greased bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
- Lightly grease two rimmed baking sheets. Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into two equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rectangle about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Spread filling ingredients over dough in the following order: melted butter, honey, raisins, and walnuts. Sprinkle cinnamon over top. Roll each piece up and over filling like a jelly roll, pinching the ends to seal. Transfer loaves, seam-side down, to the prepared baking sheets. Let rise until doubled in volume, 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Bake loaves in the preheated oven until golden brown on top, about 1 hour.
Notes
- Roll Thinly: A thin, even layer of dough ensures the filling is evenly distributed.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: High-quality nuts and fresh yeast are essential for the best flavor and texture.
