How to Make Ukrainian Country Babka - A Step-by-Step Guide

Babka is a traditional Ukrainian cake that is typically served during religious holidays and special occasions. This rustic and hearty dessert has been a staple in Ukrainian households for generations, and is often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.

Country babka is a variation of the classic babka, and is known for its simplicity and delicious taste. This recipe is passed down from grandmother to granddaughter and is a cherished part of Ukrainian culinary culture. It is a symbol of...

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Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons white sugar
  • ½ cup lukewarm water
  • 2 (.25 ounce) packages active dry yeast
  • 1 cup milk, scalded and cooled
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 cup butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest
  • 5 ½ cups bread flour
  • 1 cup raisins

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 50 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
  • Servings: 12
  • Yield: 4 babkas

  • In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons sugar, 1/2 cup water, yeast, milk and 1 cup flour. Mix until well blended, then cover and allow to rise in a warm place until light and bubbly, about 30 minutes.
  • In a large bowl, beat the eggs, salt and 1 cup white sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the melted butter and lemon zest. Stir in the sponge, then gradually mix in the flour. Knead in the bowl for about 10 minutes, then knead in the raisins. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume.
  • Punch down dough and knead for a couple of turns then let it rise again. Grease 4 smaller coffee cans with soft butter. Fill the prepared pans about 1/3 full and let rise until the dough is even with the rim. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  • Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, then turn down the temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Continue baking the bread for another 40 minutes. Avoid letting the top get too brown, if it begins to brown too quickly, cover the top with aluminum foil. Remove baked loaves from the pans and cool on a wire rack.
  • Nutrition

    317 cal.

    • Total Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 11g
    • Cholesterol: 135mg
    • Sodium: 348mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 34g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 19g
    • Protein: 6g
    • Vitamin C: 2mg
    • Calcium: 48mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 143mg