Cherry Almond Babka

Cherry Almond Babka Recipe: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Treat
Looking for a sweet and indulgent treat that's perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this delicious Cherry Almond Babka recipe! This delectable dessert is a twist on the classic babka, featuring a rich and buttery dough that's filled with sweet cherry preserves and crunchy almonds. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, this Cherry Almond Babka is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Ingredients (serves 8):

For the dough:

- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup warm milk
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast

For the filling:

- 1 cup cherry preserves
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds

For the glaze:

- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp almond extract

Cooking Tips:

- Make sure your butter is softened before starting the dough. This will make it easier to mix and will result in a smoother texture.
- When working with yeast, make sure your milk is warm but not too hot. If it's too hot, it can kill the yeast and prevent your dough from rising properly.
- If you don't have cherry preserves, you can substitute with any other fruit preserves of your choice.

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and warm milk. Add the yeast and mix until well combined.
3. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
4. Add the softened butter to the dough and knead until the butter is fully incorporated and the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
7. Roll out the dough into a rectangle shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Spread the cherry preserves evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
9. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the cherry preserves.
10. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from the long side.
11. Cut the rolled dough in half lengthwise, exposing the filling.
12. Twist the two halves together, forming a braided shape.
13. Place the babka in a greased loaf pan and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
14. Bake the babka for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
15. While the babka is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract.
16. Once the babka is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
17. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the babka.
18. Slice and serve warm.
Appearance and Taste:
This Cherry Almond Babka is a beautiful golden brown color with a swirl of cherry preserves and sliced almonds running throughout. The glaze adds a sweet and creamy finish to the dish. The dough is soft and buttery, while the cherry preserves add a fruity sweetness and the sliced almonds provide a satisfying crunch. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible.
Type of Dish: Sweet Bread
Main Ingredients: Flour, Cherry Preserves, Almonds