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Baklava-Flavor Babka Buns Recipe

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4.4 from 124 reviews

Delight in these irresistible Baklava Babka Buns, a perfect fusion of the classic babka bread and the rich flavors of traditional baklava. These golden, twisted buns are filled with a fragrant mixture of walnuts, pistachios, cinnamon, and drizzled with a luscious honey syrup, offering a sweet and nutty treat that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an indulgent snack.

Ingredients

Dough

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
  • ½ cup warm milk
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ tsp salt

Filling

  • 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
  • ½ cup pistachios, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Honey Syrup

  • ½ cup honey
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ¼ cup sugar, instant yeast, and salt until evenly combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together warm milk, eggs, and ½ cup melted butter to prepare the wet ingredients.
  2. Form and Knead Dough. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  3. Prepare Filling and Syrup. While the dough is rising, combine finely chopped walnuts, pistachios, ¼ cup sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl to make the nutty filling. In a small saucepan, gently heat ½ cup honey and ¼ cup water until combined, then stir in vanilla extract to prepare the honey syrup.
  4. Shape the Dough with Filling. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a rectangle, spread some of the remaining melted butter (¼ cup) over the surface, generously sprinkle the nut and cinnamon mixture, then drizzle with some of the honey syrup.
  5. Form Buns. Roll each rectangle tightly from one end to the other, then twist the roll several times to create layers. Shape the twisted roll into a bun and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with all pieces.
  6. Bake and Glaze. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. While still warm, brush the buns generously with the remaining honey syrup to enhance sweetness and moisture.

Notes

  • Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • Kneading the dough well is key to achieving a soft and elastic texture.
  • Feel free to adjust the nut mixture according to your preference, substituting or adding almonds or pecans.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier.
  • Store leftover buns in an airtight container; they can be warmed up before serving for a fresh-baked feel.