Indulge in the rich, sweet flavors of Cinnamon Butter Babka, a delightful bread that marries the tender softness of enriched dough with the warm, spicy notes of cinnamon. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a twisted, wreath-shaped masterpiece, complete with a glistening sugar syrup glaze that adds both shine and an extra touch of sweetness. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack, this babka is sure to impress with its intricate layers and irresistible aroma.
Why You'll Love This
Cinnamon Butter Babka is a treat that offers more than just its delicious taste; it’s a visually stunning bread that makes a beautiful centerpiece on any table. The process of twisting the dough not only creates a beautiful pattern but also ensures that every bite is infused with the cinnamon-sugar filling. The dough is incredibly soft and fluffy, thanks to the rich combination of butter, eggs, and milk, making each slice a luxurious experience.
Perfect Occasion
This babka is perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or as a weekend baking project to share with family and friends. It’s particularly fitting for festive seasons like Christmas or Easter, where its spiral shape and sweet filling can be appreciated by all. Serve it at tea time or as a special dessert with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
Decoration Tips
For an added touch of elegance, you can sprinkle powdered sugar over the cooled babka or top it with a drizzle of vanilla icing. To enhance the presentation further, consider adding a few candied nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of the glaze for extra texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 540g flour
- 1 tablespoon dry active yeast
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 114g unsalted butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 25g avocado oil
- 250g milk
- 60g sugar
- For the Filling:
- 150g softened butter
- 150g brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- For the Sugar Syrup (optional):
- 120 ml water
- 100g granulated sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixer bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Add the melted butter, eggs, avocado oil, milk, and sugar. Mix with a dough hook for 3 minutes. Cover and let rise for 1-2 hours.
- Make the Filling:
- Combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl until a paste forms.
- Shape the Babka:
- Flour a work surface and roll the risen dough into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough. Roll up the dough tightly and cut in half lengthwise. Twist the two halves together, cut side up, and form into a ring. Place in a parchment-lined 10-inch cake pan and let rise for another hour.
- Bake and Glaze:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the babka for 35-45 minutes, rotating halfway through for even baking.
- Meanwhile, prepare the sugar syrup by heating water and sugar on medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Brush the baked babka with the sugar syrup. Allow to cool before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Butter Babka, a sweetly spiced bread that’s as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat!