Cinnamon Babka

Instructions

1. 1

   In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and instant yeast.

2. 2

   Add the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.

3. 3

   Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. 4

   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to

5. 5

   5 hours, or until doubled in size.

6. 6

   In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon.

7. 7

   Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface.

8. 8

   Spread the softened butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top.

9. 9

   Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and raisins over the cinnamon-sugar layer.

10. 10

    Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one of the long sides.

11. 11

    Cut the log in half lengthwise, then twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up.

12. 12

    Place the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

13. 13

    Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

14. 14

    Bake the babka for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

15. 15

    Allow the babka to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.