Description

This irresistible cranberry orange babka recipe combines sweet and tangy flavors in a beautifully braided loaf that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
1/4 cup lukewarm water
2 large eggs, room temperature
1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup granulated sugar
Zest of 2 oranges
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, water, and eggs, then mix until combined. Gradually add the softened butter while kneading on medium speed for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Allow it to cool completely.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, about 18×12 inches. Spread the cranberry orange filling evenly over the dough.
Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the long edge. Slice the log lengthwise into two long strips. Twist the strips together, keeping the filling side facing up, and transfer to a greased loaf pan.
Cover the pan with a towel and let the babka rise for another 45 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the babka for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown on top and cooked through.
Combine powdered sugar and orange juice to make a smooth glaze. Brush the glaze over the warm babka and let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

[‘Allow the dough to rise properly for a light and airy texture.’, ‘Ensure the cranberry orange filling is completely cool before spreading it on the dough.’, ‘Use fresh orange zest for a brighter flavor.’, ‘Practice the twisting technique with a piece of dough to get comfortable.’, ‘Cover the babka loosely with aluminum foil if the top browns too quickly during baking.’]

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: European

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Sugar: 18
Sodium: 150
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 38
Fiber: 2
Protein: 5

Keywords: cranberry orange babka, babka recipe, holiday dessert, braided bread, sweet bread, orange zest, cranberry filling