Almond Babka Recipe

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Prepare the Black Tea:

Brew the black tea powder in 1/2 cup of hot water. Allow the tea to steep for 3-4 minutes, then remove the tea leaves or strain the liquid to ensure a smooth mixture. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Dough:

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in 1/4 cup of warm milk with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and the cooled black tea liquid. Add the melted butter and the activated yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom (if using). Set aside.
Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together for the filling until light and fluffy. Stir in the toasted almonds.

Fill and Shape the Babka:

Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the almond butter mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the almond butter layer.
Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape. Pinch the seam to seal.
Cut the log into equal pieces and arrange them in a greased baking dish, allowing space for expansion during baking.

Bake the Babka:

Serve:

Allow the babka to cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Enjoy your Almond Babka with a hint of black tea flavor, perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.