Description
A rich, braided babka infused with earthy matcha and nutty black sesame seeds, combining vibrant flavors and a tender, sweet crumb.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp matcha powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup black sesame seeds, toasted
- 1/3 cup black sesame paste or tahini
- 1/4 cup sugar (for filling)
- 1 tbsp matcha powder (for filling)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, instant yeast, matcha powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk warm milk and eggs together.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Add softened butter and knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Meanwhile, toast the black sesame seeds until fragrant and mix with black sesame paste, sugar, matcha powder, and vanilla extract to create the filling.
- Roll the risen dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the black sesame and matcha filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log, then slice it lengthwise to expose layers.
- Braid the two halves carefully and place into a loaf pan.
- Cover and let rise for another 45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the babka with beaten egg for a shiny crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh matcha powder for the best vibrant color and flavor.
- To toast black sesame seeds, stir them in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- For a glossy finish, apply egg wash just before baking.
- Store leftover babka in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
