Ingredients for the dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup warm milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs

Ingredients for the filling:

• 2 cups finely ground walnuts or pecans
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Ingredients for the topping:

• 1 egg, beaten
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the melted butter, yeast mixture, and beaten eggs.
3. Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
6. While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a bowl, combine the ground walnuts or pecans, sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg (if using). Mix well to form a moist and sticky filling.
7. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
8. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
9. Spread the nut filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. Starting from one of the long sides, tightly roll up the dough, jelly-roll style.
11. Place the rolled dough into a greased baking pan or loaf pan, seam side down.
12. Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
13. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
14. Brush the beaten egg over the top of the rolled dough.
15. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the Potica is golden brown and cooked through.
16. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
17. Once the Potica has cooled, dust it with powdered sugar.
18. Slice and serve the Potica as a delicious traditional Slovenian dessert or enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea.

Potica is a beloved Slovenian dessert that is typically enjoyed during special occasions and holidays. The delicate and rich nut filling surrounded by soft and slightly sweet bread creates a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It’s a true culinary treasure of Slovenia.