This babka is a twist on a traditional loaf, with the addition of orange zest and raisins. It’s a deliciously fragrant sweet bread that will delight any occasion. The combination of orange zest and raisins add a unique flavor that sets this bread apart. The preparation time is short, and the result is a light, delicious loaf that will make even the pickiest of crowd members smile.
Ingredients used:
For 1 people
- 1 package - Active Dry Yeast
- 1 cup - Warm Water
- 8 cups - Flour
- 3 - Eggs - Beaten
- 4 - Egg Yolks - Reserve Whites
- 1 cup - Sugar
- 2 cups - Milk - Warmed
- 1 Tbsp - Orange Zest
- 1 cup - Butter - Melted
- 1 cup - Raisins
Recipe steps:
- In a small mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in the warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let stand about 10 minutes until foamy.
- In a very large bowl, combine the yeast mixture, 2 cups of the flour, the 3 whole eggs, 4 egg yolks, sugar, milk and orange zest; mix well.
- Add the remaining flour, 1 cup at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and supple, about 5 minutes.
- Flatten the dough out with your hands and dot 1/3 cup of the butter on the dough.
- Fold up the dough and knead gently to incorporate the butter into the dough.
- Repeat with another 1/3 cup and then with the last 1/3 cup of butter, until all of the butter is incorporated.
- Again flatten the dough with your hands and sprinkle with the raisins. Fold up and knead to incorporate the raisins.
- Lightly oil a large mixing bowl.
- Place the dough in the bowl and turn the dough to lightly coat with oil.
- Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let stand in a warm place until doubled in volume; about 1 hour.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide into two equal size pieces. Form each piece into a loaf and place them in two lightly greased 9x5 in (23x12cm) loaf pans.
- Again cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 40 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350F (180C).
- Brush the tops of the loaves with egg whites (you will not use all 4 of the egg whites...just a nice brushing will do) and bake at 350F (180C) for 30 to 40 minutes, until the top of the loaves are golden and the loaves sound hollow when tapped.
This orange zest and raisin babka is a special treat for any occasion. With its delicious and unique flavor, it is sure to be a hit with everyone. The preparation time is short and the result is a light and fluffy loaf that will delight the pickiest of guests. It is a great way to add a special touch to any gathering, so why not give it a try today!
