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Apple Cinnamon Babka

A delightful pastry combining fluffy dough with a rich, spiced apple filling, perfect for cozy winter evenings and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: Eastern European
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 packet instant yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk, warmed (not hot) Make sure it's warm but not too hot to avoid killing the yeast.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
  • 2 cups apples, peeled and diced Use tart apples like Granny Smith for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

Method
 

Preparation of Dough
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
  3. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until a rough dough forms.
Kneading and Rising
  1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  2. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Filling
  1. While the dough is rising, mix the diced apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar in a bowl. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
Shaping the Babka
  1. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (about 12x18 inches).
  2. Spread the apple filling evenly over the surface.
  3. Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges to seal.
  4. Cut the log in half lengthwise, exposing the filling. Twist the two halves together.
  5. Mold the twisted dough into a loaf shape and place it into a greased loaf pan.
Second Rise and Baking
  1. Cover the loaf pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Once the dough has risen, bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Notes

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze tightly wrapped for up to 3 months. Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.