Basic Babka

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups lukewarm milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1 egg

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the butter, sugar, milk, and cinnamon. Mix until the dough is soft and pliable.
3. If desired, add the raisins and walnuts. Knead the dough for 10 minutes.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
6. Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface.
7. Spread the egg evenly over the surface of the dough. Carefully roll up the dough and place it into the prepared pan.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the babka cool before slicing and serving.

Interesting Facts

• Babka originated in Eastern Europe and is a traditional Easter treat.
• Babka means “little old woman” in Polish.
• The traditional babka is made with a yeast dough, raisins, and a streusel topping.