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Citrus Berry Babka

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Citrus Berry Babka is a soft, braided sweet bread filled with a luscious citrus-berry filling and finished with an optional glaze. With its vibrant swirls and pillowy texture, it’s perfect for brunch, holidays, or an eye-catching homemade treat.

Ingredients

  1. 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  3. 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
  4. 1/2 tsp salt
  5. 3/4 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk), warmed
  6. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based alternative)
  7. 2 large eggs
  8. 1 tsp vanilla extract
  9. Zest of 1 orange or lemon
  10. 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
  11. 2 tbsp citrus juice (lemon or orange)
  12. 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for filling)
  13. 1 tbsp cornstarch
  14. 2 tbsp water
  15. 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze, optional)
  16. 2–3 tsp citrus juice or water (for glaze)

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

  1. Add flour, sugar, salt, eggs, softened butter, vanilla, and citrus zest. Knead until dough is soft and elastic, about 8–10 minutes.
  2. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
  3. Prepare filling: In a saucepan, cook berries with citrus juice and sugar over medium heat until berries release juices. Stir cornstarch with water, add to pan, and cook until thickened. Cool completely.
  4. Roll out dough into a large rectangle. Spread cooled berry filling evenly.
  5. Roll dough tightly into a log, slice lengthwise, and twist the halves with cut sides facing up.
  6. Place twisted dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise 30–45 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  8. Cool slightly. Whisk powdered sugar with citrus juice to make glaze and drizzle over babka, if desired.

Notes

  • Frozen berries work well—just cook off excess liquid in the filling.
  • For overnight prep, refrigerate the dough after first rise, then shape and bake the next day.
  • Add chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts to the filling for crunch.
  • Use orange zest for a sweeter flavor or lemon for a sharper tang.
  • A streusel topping can be added for extra texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/citrus-berry-babka/