Cheese Babka

Cheese Babka: a delicious and nostalgic recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Cheese babka is a dessert that evokes pleasant memories, often prepared for holidays or family gatherings. Its enticing aroma, with a soft interior and delicious sweet cheese filling, makes this dish loved by everyone. Over time, babka has been a symbol of hospitality and joy, enjoyed during special moments. So, let’s venture into making this quick and simple dessert, perfect for all occasions!

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 300 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg for brushing

For the filling:
- 500 g fresh cheese (cottage cheese)
- 150 g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Vanilla sugar to taste

Detailed instructions:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the flour. Make a well in the middle of the flour, where you will add the fresh yeast. Cover the yeast with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 tablespoons of flour, then add 3 tablespoons of lukewarm milk. Gently mix until the yeast becomes active and starts to form bubbles, which will take about 15 minutes.

2. Adding the ingredients:
Once the yeast has started to ferment, add the remaining lukewarm milk, salt, and vanilla extract. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. It is important not to skip this step, as well-kneaded dough will ensure a fluffy and slightly elastic babka. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place until it doubles in volume (about 1 hour).

3. Preparing the filling:
While the dough is rising, prepare the cheese filling. In a large bowl, combine the fresh cheese with the sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and the 2 tablespoons of flour. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. The taste of the fresh cheese combined with the aroma of lemon and vanilla will add extra flavor to your babka.

4. Shaping the babka:
After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Take one piece of dough and roll it out on a surface sprinkled with a little flour, forming a rectangular sheet. Spread half of the cheese filling over the sheet, then carefully roll the dough into a log. Repeat the process with the other piece of dough.

5. Baking:
Place the babkas in greased trays, ensuring there is enough space between them, as they will rise during baking. Brush the surface of each babka with the beaten egg for a golden and appetizing crust. Preheat the oven to 160°C and bake the babkas for 40-50 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and a skewer inserted in the middle comes out clean.

6. Cooling and serving:
After the babkas are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then on a rack. It is essential not to cut them while they are warm to avoid crumbling.

Cheese babka is served warm or at room temperature, delicious alongside a cup of warm milk or fragrant tea.

Practical tips:
- Use fresh cheese, as this will give the filling a fine and soft texture. If you want to try a lighter version, you can use ricotta or soy cheese.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, add raisins or candied fruits to the filling.
- Experiment with flavors: a splash of rum or almond extract can completely transform the flavor profile.
- The babka can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and its taste improves the next day.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you need to adjust the quantity. Usually, 10 g of dry yeast is equivalent to 25 g of fresh yeast.

2. What other fillings can I use?
You can try various fillings such as chocolate, nuts, or jam. Each variant will bring a personal touch to your babka.

3. How can I prevent the dough from sticking?
Make sure the work surface is well dusted with flour and that you use enough flour in the dough preparation. Also, knead the dough well to make it elastic.

This cheese babka is not just a recipe, but a true culinary experience that will bring joy to your tables. Enjoy it with your loved ones and don’t hesitate to share this unique recipe!