A babka is one of the most versatile breads I can think of. Originating in the Jewish communities of Poland and Ukraine, this sweet braided bread or cake can be stuffed with many different fillings, making this a great recipe to add to your baking repertoire! With its method mimicking that of a cinnamon bun, the added twist makes this recipe a little more challenging for the avid baker. In the fall version of this recipe, I enjoy finding inspiration from another autumn classic -- carrot cake; carrot and warm spice filling and some cream cheese cardamom icing!
Method
Dough 5 Steps
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Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F.
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Step 2
In a medium bowl, start by blooming the instant active dry yeast in the warm water.
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Step 3
Add in the egg and vegetable oil and mix well. Then add in the white sugar, all-purpose flour and kosher salt.
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Step 4
Knead dough in a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for 8 minutes, adding in more flour if too wet. Alternatively, if kneading by hand, mix for 12 minutes until a smooth ball forms.
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Step 5
Allow dough to rest for 30 minutes, then roll out into a large rectangle, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
Filling 7 Steps
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Step 1
In a food processor, add together grated carrots and brown sugar. Pulse until well combined.
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Step 2
Add in all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, softened unsalted butter and egg white. Blend until a textured paste forms.
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Step 3
Spread an even layer onto the rolled out rectangle of dough, ensuring to cover the entire surface area.
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Step 4
Sprinkle the dough with toasted and chopped walnuts, then roll into a long tube (similar to a cinnamon roll).
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Step 5
Split the dough lengthwise down the middle, then twist the two pieces like a rope and tuck into a prepared loaf pan lined with parchment and cooking spray.
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Step 6
Mix the remaining egg yolk with a splash of water, and brush the top of the babka with egg wash.
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Step 7
Bake in preheated oven for 20-30 minutes until golden brown, then allow to cool to room temperature. The babka will continue to fully bake while cooling in the loaf pan.
Icing 4 Steps
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Step 1
In a bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter.
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Step 2
To your cream cheese and butter mixture, add in ground cardamom and icing sugar, and mix until completely smooth.
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Step 3
Adjust consistency with milk, thinning out if necessary.
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Step 4
Drizzle the cream cheese cardamom icing overtop the babka, and top with more toasted chopped walnuts.
Tags:
Best Babka Recipes
Carrot Cake
Carrot Babka
Carrot Cake Babka
