Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious Recipe

If you are looking for a treat that feels both nostalgic and effortlessly impressive, look no further than this Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious. This tender, aromatic bread is swirled with a sweet vanilla filling that melts in your mouth and fills your kitchen with irresistible warmth. Whether you’re new to baking or craving a quick, satisfying sweet, this babka is the perfect answer — it’s simple enough to whip up on a whim but sumptuous enough to be the star of any table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, each playing a crucial role in giving Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious its wonderful texture and flavor. From the warm milk activating yeast to the pinch of salt that brightens it all up, every item is essential for baking success.

• ½ cup (120ml) warm milk: Activates yeast and creates a soft dough base.
• 2 ¼ tsp (7g) yeast: The magical leavening agent that gives the babka its rise and fluffiness.
• ¼ cup (50g) sugar: Provides just the right touch of sweetness in the dough itself.
• 1 egg: Adds richness and moisture for tender crumb.
• ¼ cup (60ml) oil or melted butter: Ensures a soft, tender texture with a subtle buttery flavor.
• ½ tsp vanilla: The heart of the flavor, lending the dough its delicate aroma.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall taste.
• 2 ½ cups (315g) flour: The structure of your babka, providing perfect chewiness.
• Filling: A mix of softened butter, sugar, flour, vanilla, and a pinch of salt that creates a luscious, sweet swirl throughout.
• Optional: Powdered sugar or simple syrup glaze: For an elegant finish and an extra hint of sweetness.

How to Make Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by dissolving the yeast in warm milk with just a pinch of sugar to feed it. This step is essential for getting that lovely rise in the dough. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy and bubbly, signaling the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dough Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the egg, sugar, oil or melted butter, vanilla, salt, and the lively yeast mixture. Stir everything together before gradually adding in the flour. This mix will start to transform into a dough that’s soft and slightly sticky — the perfect consistency for a tender babka.

Step 3: Knead and Rise

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic — about 8 to 10 minutes. Then place it back in the bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This first rising is where the Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious develops its airy texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, beat together the softened butter, sugar, flour, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. This luscious filling is the flavor powerhouse that creates the babka’s iconic sweet swirl.

Step 5: Shape the Babka

Once risen, roll the dough out into a large rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the surface. Roll the dough up tightly, like a jelly roll, to seal in the vanilla goodness. Then carefully place your rolled dough into a greased loaf pan, ready for its final rise.

Step 6: Final Rise and Bake

Cover the pan and let your babka rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until puffed and almost doubled. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the babka for 35 to 40 minutes until golden and cooked through. Let it cool slightly before slicing to reveal that beautiful vanilla swirl.

How to Serve Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of a simple syrup glaze makes this babka look as delightful as it tastes. These garnishes add an extra touch of sweetness and a pretty sheen, perfect for impressing guests or indulging yourself.

Side Dishes

Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or a creamy hot chocolate. If you want to create a special brunch spread, add fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side for a light contrast to the rich bread.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not turn your babka into mini loaf gifts by baking in smaller pans? Or slice and toast leftover babka for breakfast topped with fresh butter and honey. You can even layer it with mascarpone and berries for a festive dessert parfait. The possibilities are as delightful as the babka itself!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious keeps beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Wrapping it well ensures your babka remains soft and fresh, resisting any drying out in the air.

Freezing

If you’ve made extra and want to hold onto the goodness longer, babka freezes wonderfully. Wrap slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature overnight.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, pop slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. Reheating slightly melts the vanilla filling and refreshes the softness, making each bite just as good as the first.

FAQs

Can I use butter instead of oil in this recipe?

Absolutely! Using melted butter instead of oil will add a richer flavor and slightly denser texture, but either fat works beautifully for Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious.

What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

No loaf pan? No problem! You can use a similarly sized round or rectangular baking dish. Just keep an eye on baking time, as it may vary slightly depending on the shape.

How do I know when the babka is fully baked?

The babka should be golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I add nuts or chocolate to the filling?

Yes! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips make excellent additions. Mix them into the filling before spreading to add texture and a new flavor twist to your Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious.

Is it okay to use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

You can use instant yeast but reduce the rising time slightly since it activates faster. Otherwise, just follow the same steps for a successful bake.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so heartwarming about baking a Polish Vanilla Babka – Easy & Delicious, especially knowing it comes together with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. This babka is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition that anyone can enjoy making. Give it a try, share a slice with loved ones, and watch as it becomes your new favorite go-to dessert for any occasion.