Cinnamon Babka Cook's Country

Indulge in the ultimate comfort-baking experience with this Cinnamon Babka from Cook’s Country, a rich and decadent treat perfect for any occasion. This tender, buttery bread swirled with a luscious cinnamon and dark brown sugar filling boasts beautifully twisted layers that make each slice as visually stunning as it is delicious. The dough, made with a touch of vanilla, warm milk, and eggs, achieves a soft yet slightly elastic texture, while a shiny egg wash ensures a golden, bakery-style finish. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and spice, this cinnamon babka is a delightful centerpiece for brunch, a comforting dessert, or an impressive gift for your favorite food lover. With simple step-by-step directions and plenty of make-ahead potential, this recipe transforms a classic Jewish pastry into a foolproof and crowd-pleasing masterpiece.

Nutriscore Rating: 57/100

Prep Time:120 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:165 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 3.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.25 cup Granulated sugar
• 2.25 teaspoons Instant yeast
• 0.75 teaspoon Salt
• 0.75 cup Whole milk
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 whole Large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons Cinnamon (for filling)
• 0.5 cup Dark brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (softened, for filling)
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour (for filling)
• 1 whole Egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon Water (for egg wash)

Directions

Step 1

In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt.

Step 2

Warm the milk to about 110°F and pour it into the dry ingredients. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.

Step 3

Using the dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour if needed to make a smooth, slightly sticky dough.

Step 4

Increase the speed to medium and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is elastic and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

Step 5

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 6

While the dough is rising, make the cinnamon filling by combining cinnamon, dark brown sugar, softened butter, and 2 tablespoons of flour in a bowl until smooth and spreadable.

Step 7

Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into an 18x12 inch rectangle.

Step 8

Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border on all sides.

Step 9

Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log and pinch the seam to seal.

Step 10

Using a sharp knife, slice the log in half lengthwise to expose the layers of filling. Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up, and place the twist into a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Step 11

Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap and let it rise again for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until puffy.

Step 12

Preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 13

Whisk together the egg and water to make the egg wash. Brush it over the top of the babka.

Step 14

Bake the babka for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should register about 190°F).

Step 15

Let the babka cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1097.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3437.1

Total Fat 118.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 67.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 829.7mg	0%
Sodium 2094.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 526.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 22.2g	0%
Total Sugars 176.0g
Protein 73.8g	0%

Vitamin D 238.0IU	0%
Calcium 650.3mg	0%
Iron 25.4mg	0%
Potassium 1281.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.7%

Protein: 8.5%

Carbs: 60.8%