Apple Cinnamon Babka Bread
This delightful apple cinnamon babka bread combines soft, buttery layers with sweet, spiced apples and a hint of cinnamon, creating a heartwarming treat perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110 degrees F)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups peeled, finely chopped apples (about 2 medium)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup streusel crumble optional
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting optional
- 1/2 cup simple vanilla glaze optional
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit until frothy.
- Add the eggs, sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead in the softened butter until you have a smooth and elastic dough.
- Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Filling
- Cook finely chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and lemon juice over medium heat until the mixture thickens and apples are soft.
- Let the apple filling cool completely.
Assembling
- Roll the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the cooled apple filling over the dough.
- Roll up the dough tightly into a log, slicing lengthwise to expose the swirls.
- Twist the two halves together and place the loaf into a greased pan.
- Cover and let rise for another 45 minutes to an hour.
Baking
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden brown.
- Optional: Brush with syrup, sprinkle with streusel, or drizzle glaze while warm.
Notes
For healthier options, replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use almond milk instead of whole milk. You can also substitute coconut sugar for granulated sugar.