Rolada Orzechowa, more familiarly known as traditional Polish nut rolls, is a favorite pastry during the Christmas and Easter seasons.
My Ciotka Peggy ruled the neighborhood with these irresistible pastries. Ciotka’s father-in-law Mr. Kunec – who we called Cooksie – owned a neighborhood grocery store and butcher shop with Ciotka’s husband, my Uncle Mike. Every year, Ciocia handmade hundreds if not thousands of nut rolls and sold them from the store.
The preparation of nut rolls involves a rich, yeasted dough rolled out into a thin layer, generously spread with a flavorful filling made from ground nuts, sugar, and sometimes honey or spices.
The most common nut used in the filling is poppy seed, creating the beloved “makowiec.” Poppy seeds add a unique, nutty flavor and a delightful crunch to the pastry. Alternatively, “orzechowiec” incorporates ground nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, creating a rich and satisfying filling with a buttery texture.
My favorite was Ciotka’s pink coconut rolls.
Once rolled and baked to golden perfection, the nut rolls are often dusted with powdered sugar or glazed for an extra touch of sweetness. These pastries showcase the artistry and skill of Polish bakers, reflecting a heritage of intricate and delicious desserts passed down through generations. Whether served as a part of a holiday celebration or enjoyed with a cup of coffee, Polish nut rolls are a delightful indulgence that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering.
Pastry rolls make a terrific Christmas gift and we have a good supply ready to ship.
A full roll is $16.00
And a 1/2 roll is $8.00
We can ship these delicacies and you can find them in our online store.
SPOILER ALERT!!!! These are so good that you will be tempted to eat the entire roll in one sitting without sharing it with your friends.