Poppy Seed Babka

Instructions

Prepare the dough.

In a medium bowl add yeast, 1/2 tsp (3g) sugar and 1/4 cup (60ml) lukewarm milk. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to activate the yeast.

In a large bowl whisk together the flour, sugar and salt. Add the remaining milk, activated yeast, egg yolks, vanilla extract, sour cream and melted butter. Start kneading it until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl. You can knead the dough by hand or use a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Give the dough the shape of a ball. Transfer the dough into an oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap.

Let it rest for about 1 hour at room temperature (warm space) until doubled in size.

Prepare the poppy seed meringue filling.

Add the egg whites to a mixing bowl with a pinch of salt.

Whip until foamy. Gradually add sugar and continue mixing until stiff peaks form.

Add the ground poppy seeds and vanilla extract.

Mix gently to combine. Set aside until ready to use.

Assemble the babka.

On a floured surface, using a rolling pin, roll the dough to a rectangle of about 18×10 inches (45x25cm).

Spread poppy seed mixture evenly.

Leave about a 1/2-inch (1cm) border around the edges.

Roll up the dough.

Cut the log in half lengthwise using a sharp knife.

Start braiding the two pieces, trying to keep the open layers exposed so the cut ends remain on top.

Transfer the poppy seed babka to a 9×5-inch (23x13cm) loaf pan lined with parchment paper.

Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 40-45 minutes at room temperature.

How to bake the babka.

Preheat the oven to 350F (180C).

Brush the bread with beaten egg.

Reduce oven temperature to 320F (160C).

Transfer babka to the oven and bake for about 50-55 minutes. Check with a skewer if the babka is baked through.

During baking, cover with aluminum foil after the first 30 minutes if browns too fast.

Prepare the sugar syrup.

In a saucepan add the water and sugar and boil for 2-3 minutes.

Brush the babka while still warm with the sugar syrup.

Let the poppy seed babka cool completely before cutting it into slices.

Dessert,Snack