In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, add your yeast, flour, sugar, and salt. Mix just enough to combine.

Combine the vodka, extract, egg, yolks, and milk. Stream the liquids into the dries on medium speed. When it starts to form a ball of dough, add the melted butter.

Beat on medium speed until it forms a smooth ball of dough.

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, covered, in a warm area for one hour.

Meanwhile, grind the poppy seeds in a spice grinder until it reaches a mealy texture. Place it into a bowl and cover with the boiling water for 30 minutes.

Combine all the ingredients for the filling and set aside.

Place the dough on a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out into a 10"x12" rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough with an offset spatula. Be sure to leave a 1/2" border.

Roll the dough from the shorter end. Carefully transfer the roll onto a parchment lined sheet pan with the seam on the bottom. Lightly cover and place it in a warm area for one hour or until proofed and puffy.

Preheat the oven to 350F. Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.