Babka Recipe (with Video)

Babka Recipe: Babka is a rich and indulgent sweet bread that originates from Eastern European Jewish communities. Traditionally, it consists of a soft, brioche-like dough filled with chocolate or cinnamon, then twisted into a beautiful swirled loaf.

Today, Babka has gained popularity worldwide due to its delicious layers of filling and its stunning presentation. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a dessert, or with a cup of coffee, Babka is a show-stopping treat worth making at home.

Ingredients Needed for Babka

Before you start, gather all the ingredients to ensure a smooth baking process.

Dough Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 packet (7g) instant yeast
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (120ml) whole milk, warm
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

Filling Ingredients (Classic Chocolate):

• 1 cup (170g) dark chocolate, finely chopped
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter
• ⅓ cup (40g) powdered sugar
• ¼ cup (25g) cocoa powder

Topping Ingredients (Optional):

• ¼ cup (60ml) simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water)
• Streusel topping (butter, flour, and sugar mix)

Optional Add-ins:

• Cinnamon for a cinnamon Babka variation
• Chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts)
• Fruit preserves for a fruity twist

Tools and Equipment Required

• Stand mixer with a dough hook (or mixing bowls and a wooden spoon)
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or bench scraper
• Loaf pan
• Baking paper
• Pastry brush

How to Make Babka – Step by Step Guide

Step 1 – Preparing the Dough

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add wet ingredients: Pour in the warm milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
3. Incorporate the butter: Gradually add the softened butter while kneading. The dough will be sticky at first but will smooth out.
4. Knead the dough: Knead for about 10 minutes until soft and elastic. You can do this by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.
5. First proofing: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 2 – Preparing the Filling

1. Melt the chocolate and butter: In a heatproof bowl, melt chocolate and butter together, stirring until smooth.
2. Add sugar and cocoa: Mix in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder until well combined.
3. Cool before spreading: Let the mixture cool slightly so it thickens before spreading on the dough.

Step 3 – Shaping the Babka

1. Roll out the dough: Once proofed, roll the dough into a large rectangle (about 12×16 inches).
2. Spread the filling: Evenly spread the chocolate filling, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Roll tightly: Roll the dough into a log starting from the longer side.
4. Slice and twist: Cut the log in half lengthwise, exposing the layers. Twist the two halves together to form a braided loaf.
5. Place in a loaf pan: Transfer the twisted dough into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan.

Step 4 – Second Proofing and Baking

1. Let the dough rise again: Cover the loaf pan and let the dough rise for another 45-60 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Bake the Babka: Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5 – Adding the Final Touches

1. Make a sugar syrup: Heat equal parts sugar and water until dissolved, then brush it over the warm Babka.
2. Optional toppings: Sprinkle with streusel or chopped nuts for extra texture.
3. Cool before slicing: Let the Babka cool completely before cutting to prevent it from becoming too dense.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

• Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat slices in the oven for a fresh taste.
• Serve with coffee, tea, or warm milk for the best experience.

FAQs about Babka Recipe

What is a babka?

Babka is a sweet, braided bread or cake which originated in the Jewish communities of Eastern Europe. It’s known for its buttery dough and swirls filled with various ingredients such as chocolate, cinnamon, or fruit preserves.

How difficult is it to make babka at home?

Making babka at home is a rewarding baking project. It’s considered a moderate challenge due to the need for dough kneading and the braiding process. However, with detailed instructions and a bit of practice, anyone can create delicious babka.

What ingredients do I need for a basic chocolate babka?

The basic ingredients for chocolate babka include flour, yeast, milk, sugar, eggs, butter, salt, and chocolate. Some recipes also incorporate nuts or a streusel topping for added texture and flavor.

Can I make babka without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can make babka without a stand mixer, but it requires some effort. Kneading the dough by hand can be a physically demanding part of the process but it’s entirely feasible and can be quite satisfying.

How long does it take to bake a babka?

The total time for baking a babka can vary, but generally, it takes around 25 to 30 minutes in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Always check if the babka is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your babka is ready.

Is there a faster version of traditional babka?

For those short on time, some recipes offer shortcuts such as using pre-made dough or simpler fillings. These versions may sacrifice some traditional flavors and textures but can still be delightful.

How do I store babka?

Babka can be stored wrapped in foil or plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to a month. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to maintain freshness and texture.

Can babka be made vegan?

Yes, babka can be adapted to a vegan diet by substituting plant-based ingredients for dairy and eggs. Vegan butter and milk substitutes like almond or soy milk work well, as do flax or chia eggs for the dough.

These FAQs aim to guide both novice and experienced bakers through the delightful process of making babka, ensuring delicious results every time.