Polish Babka Cake

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 eggs, divided
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Directions

1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla and salt.
4. Gently pour in the milk and stir until combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and yeast.
6. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
8. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise for 1 hour.
9. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon.
10. Divide the dough in half and roll each half into a rectangle about 12x8 inches.
11. Spread half of the butter-sugar mixture over each rectangle.
12. Roll up each rectangle, jelly-roll style, and pinch the ends to seal.
13. Transfer the rolls to a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan.
14. Cover the pan with a damp cloth and let rise for 30 minutes.
15. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Beat the remaining egg and brush it over the top of the loaves.
16. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Interesting Facts

• Babka is a traditional Polish cake that is often served at Easter and other celebrations.
• The name babka comes from the Polish word for grandmother, babcia.
• It is said that babka is a symbol of hospitality and family in Polish culture.