Ingredients

2 teaspoons white sugar
1/2 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 1/2 cups bread flour
1 cup raisins
Ukrainian Country Babka is a traditional sweet bread from Ukraine that is made with eggs, milk, sugar, lemon, and raisins. It is a dish that is often enjoyed during religious holidays and family gatherings. The babka is a symbol of communion between family members and is typically prepared with love and great care. This recipe has been passed down for generations and remains one of the most beloved dishes in Ukrainian culture today.

Instructions

1.In a small bowl, dissolve 2 teaspoons sugar in lukewarm water. Sprinkle yeast over the mixture and let it stand for about 5 minutes.
2.In another bowl, mix scalded milk and all-purpose flour together. Whisk until smooth.
3.Beat eggs with salt in a large bowl. Gradually add white sugar and melted butter, whisking continuously until well combined. Stir in the lemon zest.
4.Add the yeast mixture to the egg mixture and whisk until well combined. Gradually add in the flour, stirring until the dough is smooth and elastic. Stir in raisins and mix well.
5.Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in size. Punch down the dough and place it in a greased loaf pan. Allow the dough to rise again until it reaches the rim of the pan.
6.Preheat oven to 350 F. Bake babka for around 60-70 minutes, or until golden brown on top. Let the babka cool down to room temperature before serving.

PROS

This babka is a special treat for all bread enthusiasts, especially those who love raisins and citrus flavors.
It is fluffy on the inside, with a golden brown crust on the outside.
It has a unique texture due to the raisins, which add a touch of sweetness.
It can be served for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack with coffee or tea.

CONS

This babka requires a lot of time and patience to make.
It takes approximately 2 hours for the dough to rise, which can be challenging for busy individuals.
Additionally, the high sugar and butter content make this bread calorie-dense, and it should only be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Babka is high in carbohydrates and a great source of energy. It has some nutritional value as it contains vitamins and minerals from the flour, raisins, milk, and eggs. Raisins also provide dietary fiber and antioxidants that may help with digestion and overall health. However, it’s important to consume babka in moderation, as it’s high in sugar and fat.

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