Introduction
Babka makowa, or poppy seed cake, is a delightful and traditional Polish dessert that brings a touch of warmth and nostalgia to any table. This rich and moist cake, filled with a sweet poppy seed filling, is especially popular during festive occasions and family gatherings. It boasts a unique flavor profile and is often enjoyed with tea or coffee. The recipe below will guide you through making this scrumptious treat step by step.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– All-purpose flour: 500g
– Poppy seeds: 250g
– Sugar: 200g
– Butter: 200g, softened
– Eggs: 4 large
– Milk: 200ml
– Baking powder: 1 packet (approximately 16g)
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Lemon zest: from one lemon
Prep Time
The preparation of babka makowa takes approximately 30 minutes. This allows you to gather all your ingredients and prepare the necessary components for the cake.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for the babka makowa is around 50-60 minutes, depending on your oven. Therefore, the total time for making this delicious cake, including prep and cooking, is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. This recipe yields one large babka makowa, ideal for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy your baking!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease a bundt pan thoroughly with butter and dust it with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and ground poppy seeds. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, beat the soft butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Gradually add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture. Start with the dry ingredients, mix until just combined, then add milk, and repeat until all ingredients are incorporated.
Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the prepared batter into the greased bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the baba from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Serving Suggestion
This cake is delicious as is but can also be served with powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate glaze for added sweetness.
Storage
Store the cooled babka in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Variations
Feel free to experiment by adding chopped nuts, raisins, or a hint of lemon zest to the batter for different flavor profiles.