Imagine the warm aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen, with a zesty twist that dances on your taste buds. Enter the Lemon Streusel Twisted Babka, a delightful fusion of traditional Jewish baking and bright citrus flavor that will have you reaching for seconds! This stunning loaf not only looks impressive but also offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious novice, this recipe promises to elevate your baking game and impress your friends and family. Ready to embark on a delicious adventure? Let’s dive into the world of Lemon Streusel Twisted Babka!
Prep Time: 2 hrs
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 40 mins
Cuisine: Jewish
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 cup streusel topping
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of sugar. Whisk together until well mixed.
- In a small saucepan, gently heat 1 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of butter over low heat until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, beat 2 eggs and add the melted milk and butter mixture. Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest until well combined.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the wet ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon or spatula until a dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the streusel topping by combining 1/2 cup of streusel topping ingredients in a bowl (you can use a mix of flour, sugar, and butter). Mix until crumbly and set aside.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the streusel topping evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the edges to seal the roll.
- With a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough in half lengthwise to expose the filling. Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up.
- Transfer the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan, tucking the ends underneath if necessary. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising.
- Once the dough has risen again, bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove the Lemon Streusel Twisted Babka from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve the babka warm or at room temperature, enjoying the delightful lemon flavor and streusel topping.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, make sure to use fresh lemon zest. The zest is where the lemon's essential oils are, providing a vibrant taste that will elevate your babka.
- Knead Properly: When kneading the dough, aim for a smooth and elastic texture. This ensures that your babka will rise beautifully and have a lovely crumb.
- Perfect Rising Conditions: To help the dough rise, find a warm, draft-free spot in your kitchen. You can even turn your oven on for a minute, then turn it off and place the dough inside to create a cozy environment.
- Customize Your Streusel: Feel free to add your favorite spices, like cinnamon or nutmeg, to the streusel topping for an extra flavor dimension.
- Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your babka as it bakes. It's done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve your Lemon Streusel Twisted Babka warm. The flavors are more pronounced, and the texture is wonderfully soft.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze slices for a quick treat later!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
