Citrus Twist Vegan Babka: Lemon and Poppy Seed Perfection

Experience the zesty delight of this Citrus Twist Vegan Babka, a soft and sweet bread that melds the bright flavors of lemon with the subtle crunch of poppy seeds. This babka is crafted with a lemon poppy seed butter filling and crowned with a luscious lemon glaze, making it a standout treat that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat. Perfect for vegan diets, this recipe uses plant-based ingredients to deliver a traditional texture and irresistible flavor.

Why You’ll Love This:

This Citrus Twist Vegan Babka combines the tender texture of homemade bread with the zesty, refreshing taste of lemon, enhanced by the nutty depth of poppy seeds. Each slice offers a soft, fluffy crumb that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy, rich filling and the sweet, tangy glaze. It’s a perfect example of how vegan baking can be just as indulgent and satisfying as any traditional recipe.

Perfect Occasion:

This babka is ideal for brunches, afternoon tea, or as a special weekend treat. It’s also a fabulous addition to holiday tables and festive gatherings, providing a bright, citrusy contrast to heavier meals. Gift it during the holidays or bring it to a potluck to impress with both flavor and vegan-friendly ingredients.

Decoration Tips:

• Drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the top of the babka after it has cooled slightly to create a stunning, glossy finish.
• Garnish with lemon zest or thin lemon slices for an extra pop of color and flavor.
• Sprinkle a few additional poppy seeds on top of the glaze before it sets for a textured, professional look.

Ingredients for the Bread Dough:

• 150ml plant-based milk
• 5g instant dry yeast
• 275g plain flour
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 30g caster sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 30g poppy seeds
• 80g softened vegan butter

Ingredients for the Filling:

• 80g softened vegan butter
• 160g caster sugar
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 30g poppy seeds

Ingredients for the Glaze:

• 100g icing sugar
• About 2 tablespoons lemon juice (adjust to desired consistency)

Instructions:

1. Warm the plant milk slightly and add the yeast. Let it sit until frothy.
2. In a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine flour, lemon zest, sugar, salt, and poppy seeds. Mix well.
3. Add the frothy yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix on low, then gradually add butter piece by piece, increasing to medium speed. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
5. For the filling, combine vegan butter, sugar, lemon zest, juice, and poppy seeds until smooth.
6. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread the filling, and roll up into a log. Cut the log lengthwise and twist the two halves together, filling side up.
7. Place in a lined loaf tin, cover, and let rise until puffy, about 30-45 minutes.
8. Bake at 180°C (fan) for 30-35 minutes until golden. Let cool.
9. Mix icing sugar and lemon juice to create the glaze and drizzle over the babka once cooled.

Enjoy this delectable Citrus Twist Vegan Babka, a refreshing and satisfying treat that’s sure to be a hit at any occasion. Enjoy!