Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to Poland? Today, we're baking a truly delightful treat: a Polish Cheese Babka! This isn't your average bread; it's a fluffy, subtly sweet, and intensely cheesy masterpiece. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting afternoon snack, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this delicious dish – a perfect example of quick dinner ideas if you're short on time!
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- For the Cheese Filling:
- 16 ounces farmer's cheese (or dry curd cottage cheese), drained well
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This ensures your yeast is alive and kicking, leading to a beautifully risen babka.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, remaining sugar, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined. This step creates the base for a smooth and flavorful dough.
3. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a soft dough forms. Don't worry if it's a little sticky – that's normal!
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment for 5-7 minutes on medium speed.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size. This is crucial for achieving that airy, light texture.
6. Prepare the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese filling. In a medium bowl, combine the drained farmer's cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix well until everything is incorporated. Add raisins if desired.
7. Shape the Babka: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 12x18 inch rectangle. Spread the cheese filling evenly over the dough.
8. Roll and Slice: Tightly roll the dough up from the long side. Cut the roll in half lengthwise, then twist the two halves together.
9. Second Rise: Place the twisted babka in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, until almost doubled.
10. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the babka for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Cool and Enjoy: Let the babka cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. This is a wonderful example of healthy meals, surprisingly!
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of regular milk.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as ricotta or cream cheese.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cheese filling for an extra layer of warmth.
- Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled babka.
- This recipe easily adapts to different dietary needs. Try using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Around 300-350 Fat: Around 15-20g Protein: Around 8-10g Carbohydrates: Around 40-45g
This Polish Cheese Babka is a delicious and satisfying treat, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the wonderful aromas and the taste of tradition with this simple yet impressive recipe. It's one of the best recipes you'll ever try, trust us!