In recent years, Babka has experienced a resurgence in popularity. It’s finding its way onto the menus of trendy cafes and artisan bakeries. The resurgence can be attributed to its nostalgic appeal, as well as its versatility. Babka can be enjoyed as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even as a decadent dessert. The timeless tradition of babka continues to be passed down through generations, with families treasuring their own secret recipes and techniques. However, with the rise of home baking and the accessibility of high-quality ingredients, more and more people are discovering the joy of creating their own babka masterpieces in their own kitchens.
The classic babka: A Brief History
Babka, a traditional Eastern European sweet bread, has been delighting taste buds for generations. Its origins can be traced back to the Jewish communities of Poland and Ukraine, where it was traditionally served during festive occasions and holidays. The word “babka” itself means “grandmother” in Polish, and this warm and comforting treat has indeed been cherished as a symbol of family and tradition. Originally, babka was made with a rich yeast dough, filled with various sweet or savory ingredients, and twisted into a distinctive twisted shape. Over time, different variations of babka emerged, each with its own unique and mouthwatering flavor profile. In the early 20th century, Jewish immigrants brought babka to America, where it quickly became a beloved treat in Jewish bakeries and households. Its popularity soared as non-Jewish communities also discovered the joy of sinking their teeth into a slice of this delectable creation. While the classic babka is often associated with its chocolate variation, the introduction of jam as a filling has added a whole new level of heavenly indulgence. The marriage of the tender and buttery dough with the sweet and tangy taste of jam is truly a match made in dessert heaven.
Why make homemade babka?
Why is babka so popular? What makes this sweet bread so irresistibly enchanting? The answer lies in its unique combination of flavors, its visually stunning appearance, and the comforting nostalgia it brings with every bite.
First and foremost, babka is a celebration of flavors. The rich and buttery brioche dough serves as the perfect canvas for an indulgent swirl of sweet fillings. From classic combinations like chocolate and cinnamon to innovative twists like Nutella and raspberry jam, babka offers a wide range of taste experiences that cater to every palate. The melding of contrasting flavors creates a harmonious dance on the taste buds that is simply irresistible. But it’s not just the flavors that captivate; it’s the visual appeal as well. The signature swirled shape of babka, with its layers of dough and filling, is a feast for the eyes. Each slice reveals a mesmerizing pattern of dark and light, creating a visual delight that is as pleasing as the taste itself. Serving babka is like presenting a work of art. It adds an extra element of excitement to every gathering, elevating any occasion to a higher level of sophistication. Furthermore, babka holds a special place in our hearts and memories. Whether it’s the memories of enjoying babka with loved ones during holiday gatherings or the comforting nostalgia of rediscovering the flavors of childhood. This sweet treat carries with it a sense of warmth and familiarity. Babka brings people together, evoking a sense of joy and togetherness that is hard to replicate with any other dessert.
Ingredients and substitutes
Dough – Starting with the dough, the basic ingredients you’ll need include flour, sugar, yeast, eggs, butter, and milk. These ingredients work together to create a soft and tender dough that is both slightly sweet and rich in flavor. While it’s important to follow the recipe closely, there might be times when you need to make substitutions. For those who prefer a dairy-free version, you can replace the butter and milk with non-dairy alternatives like margarine and almond milk. Similarly, if you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can experiment with using whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. Jam – When it comes to selecting the perfect jam for your babka, the options are endless. Traditionalists often opt for classic fruit flavors like raspberry, strawberry, or apricot, as they pair beautifully with the buttery richness of the dough. These fruity jams lend a refreshing and tangy note that balances out the sweetness and adds a delightful touch of acidity. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to step outside the box and experiment with unconventional jam flavors. For example, consider the bold taste of blackberry or the tropical sweetness of pineapple. These unexpected choices can add a unique twist to your babka and surprise your taste buds with every mouthwatering slice.And if you have dietary restrictions or simply want to explore healthier alternatives, there are plenty of options available. Opt for sugar-free or low-sugar jams to reduce the sweetness without compromising the taste. Alternatively, try experimenting with fruit preserves made from natural sweeteners like agave or stevia. These alternatives can give you the pleasure of enjoying a delightful babka while aligning with your dietary preferences. Lastly, the glaze or syrup that is brushed over the babka after it’s baked helps to enhance the moistness and sweetness of the loaf. Traditional recipes often call for a simple syrup made from sugar and water, but there are plenty of opportunities to experiment here as well. Consider using flavored syrups like maple syrup or honey, or even drizzling a thin layer of melted chocolate or a cream cheese glaze over the top for an extra touch of indulgence. Jam is sweet so, to prevent adding additional sweetness, I like to brush the babka bread with melted butter.
Step-by-step: Easy jam babka recipe
Dough
Combine – In the bowl of a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, combine warm milk (110F), yeast, sugar, and eggs. Followed by the flour and salt. Mix on medium-high speed for a minute or two.Pro tip – Use a whisk to ensure everything is well combined. Especially, if you are using fresh baker’s yeast like I am in today. Knead – Once all the flour is well incorporated, knead on medium speed for 8 to 10 minutes.Pro tip – To knead by hand, transfer to a well-dusted worktop and knead for 12 to 15 minutes. Butter – Next, add the soft room-temperature butter, one cube at a time. Once all the butter is in, knead for 8 to 10 minutes more. Bowl – Transfer to an oiled bowl seam side down. Coat the surface with oil to prevent drying. Cover with a damp kitchen cloth or plastic wrap. Rise – Leave to rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in volume.Pro tip – You can also cover and leave it in the fridge to rise for 6 to 12 hours or up to 24 hours.
Fill & shape
Pans – Generously grease two 9 x 4-inch loaf pans and set aside.Pro tip – You can also make 1 large 13 x 4-inch loaf.
Divide – Punch the dough and transfer to a lightly floured work surface. Then, divide the dough into two to make two loaves.Pro tip – Today, I made one strawberry jam babka and one plum jam babka. Fill – Roll each portion into a rectangle about 1/8 inch in thickness. Drop spoonfuls of jam all over the dough. Then, use an offset spatula to spread evenly, making sure to get to all the edges too.
Roll – Working from the long side, roll the dough from side to side (similar to a Swiss roll). Pinch the seams together.Pro tip – I like to place the long in the freezer for 15 minutes before I cut them. This sets the filling and makes it easier (less messy) to work with. Twist – Using a serrated knife or bench scraper, cut the roll in the middle dividing it into two lengthways. Turn the cut side facing upwards. Next, twist the two parts onto each other and pinch the ends to prevent them from opening.Pro tip – It is easier to start from the middle, twist one end, turn the other, and pinch the ends, as shown in the video. Pan – Pick the twisted dough up carefully and place it into the prepared loaf pan making sure the twisted part is up, and the seams are under. Proof – Cover with plastic wrap and let rest in a warm place for about 60 to 90 minutes.Pro tip – You can even place the dough in the fridge for 6 to 9 hours (or overnight). Thaw an hour before baking. Perfect for weekend or festive breakfast.
Bake
Bake – 10 minutes before baking, preheat the oven to 375°F / 190°C / Gas Mark 5. Brush the babka with egg wash and transfer to the oven on the middle rack and bake for 30 minutes or until lightly golden on top.Pro tip – Egg wash is just a beaten egg with 2 tbsp of water or milk. Cool – Remove from the oven and brush with melted butter. Cool for 10 minutes in the pan. Then, invert onto a cooling rack or platter to cool further.Pro tip – Getting the babka out of the pan might be challenging once the jam cools. So it is best to do that when the babka is still warm. Enjoy!
Tips for making perfect babka
First and foremost, use quality ingredients for the dough. Fresh yeast, unbleached flour, and high-quality butter will significantly affect the texture and flavor of your babka. Make sure to take advantage of these essentials. When rolling out the dough, dust your work surface generously with flour to prevent sticking. Patience and a gentle touch are key here, as you want to avoid stretching or tearing the dough. Take your time and let the dough relax if it resists. As you spread the jam or filling onto the rolled-out dough, leave a small border around the edges to prevent any leakage during baking. Be generous with the amount of filling you use, as it will create those irresistible layers within the babka. When it’s time to roll and shape the babka, ensure it’s tightly rolled to create those beautiful swirls. Don’t overstuff the dough, as it may unravel during baking. Gently but firmly pinch the seams together to seal the babka. Finally, take your time with the rising and baking process. Allow the babka to rise until it has doubled before baking it to perfection. Keep a close eye on it as it bakes, adjusting the temperature if needed to achieve that golden brown crust without drying out the babka.
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Frequently asked questions
Creative ways to serve babka
One delightful way to serve babka is by turning it into French toast. Cut thick slices of babka and soak them in a mixture of eggs, milk, and a hint of cinnamon. Then, cook the pieces on a hot grill until they turn golden brown and crispy. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of decadence. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not use babka as a base for an ice cream sundae? Simply toast a slice of babka until it becomes slightly crunchy. Then, place a scoop of your favorite ice cream on top and garnish with chocolate sauce, crushed nuts, or fresh fruit. The combination of warm babka and cold ice cream creates a mouthwatering contrast of textures and flavors. For a more elegant presentation, consider making babka trifles. Cut babka into small cubes and layer them in individual dessert glasses with whipped cream or custard layers. Top it off with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a drizzle of caramel sauce. These visually stunning and delicious desserts are sure to impress your guests. And if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy babka, try making babka bread pudding. Tear a few slices of babka into bite-sized pieces and place them in a buttered baking dish. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the babka pieces and let them soak for about 30 minutes. Then, bake in the oven until the top turns golden brown and crispy. The result is a warm and comforting dessert that showcases the rich flavors of babka.
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