Ukrainian Country Babka

Recipe View 30 mins In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, scalded milk, lukewarm water, yeast, and 2 teaspoons of sugar. Mix until well combined, creating a smooth batter. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until the mixture is light, bubbly, and sponge-like (approximately 30 minutes).

Recipe View 7 mins In a separate large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together the eggs, granulated sugar, and salt until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Gradually drizzle in the melted butter, mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the lemon zest.

Recipe View 10 mins Add the sponge mixture to the egg mixture and stir gently to combine. Gradually add the bread flour, mixing on low speed until a shaggy dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Incorporate the raisins during the last few minutes of kneading, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Recipe View 2 hrs Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1.5-2 hours).

Recipe View 15 mins Punch down the dough gently to release the air. Knead it lightly for a couple of turns. Cover and let it rest for another 15 minutes.

Recipe View 1 hrs Grease four small coffee cans or baking tins with soft butter. Divide the dough evenly among the prepared cans, filling them about 1/3 full. Let the dough rise in the cans until it reaches the rim (about 45-60 minutes).

Recipe View 0 mins Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

Recipe View 55 mins Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and continue baking for an additional 40 minutes, or until the babkas are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the tops begin to brown too quickly, tent them loosely with aluminum foil.

Recipe View 0 mins Remove the baked babkas from the cans immediately and let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.