Almond and Poppy Seed Cookies | Lithuanian Christmas Cookies (Kūčiukai) | Poppy Seed Cookie Recipe

Combine warm water and yeast in a bowl; let sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, poppy seeds, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Add melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients; mix until combined.

Incorporate the yeast mixture and egg; knead the dough until smooth, about 10 minutes.

Cover the dough with a cloth; let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Punch down the risen dough; fold in raisins, orange zest, and chopped almonds.

Shape the dough into small balls, about the size of a marble.

Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; let rise for another 30 minutes.

Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.

Remove from the oven and brush with honey while still warm.

Let cool on a wire rack before serving.

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