Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)

This Jam Donut Babka (Vegan) recipe is a delightful twist on traditional babka, perfect for any occasion. It combines the softness of freshly baked bread with the sweetness of raspberry jam, making it an ideal treat for brunches, dessert tables, or cozy evenings at home. The lightly spiced dough and simple glaze elevate this vegan version into a showstopper that everyone will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Quick Raspberry Jam (or use 160g thick store-bought jam):
• Babka Dough:
• Optional Glaze:
• How to Make Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
• Step 1: Make the Jam
• Step 2: Prepare the Dough
• Step 3: Shape the Babka
• Step 4: Bake
• Step 5: Make the Glaze (Optional)
• How to Serve Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
• For Breakfast
• As a Dessert
• With Beverages
• For Special Occasions
• How to Perfect Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
• Best Side Dishes for Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
• Reheating Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Jam Donut Babka (Vegan) gluten-free?
• Can I use another type of jam?
• What if my dough is too sticky?
• How should I serve Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create this impressive dessert.
• Deliciously Fluffy: The dough turns out soft and airy, providing that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Versatile Filling: While raspberry jam is used here, feel free to experiment with other flavors like blueberry or strawberry.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut it into slices and serve it at gatherings—everyone will want a piece!
• Vegan Friendly: Enjoy this indulgent treat without any animal products, making it suitable for all dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Jam Donut Babka (Vegan), you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will streamline the baking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Dough hook or wooden spoon
• Loaf tin (8-inch/20 cm)
• Parchment paper
• Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Saves time and effort when kneading dough, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Dough hook: Makes kneading easier by mimicking hand movements for optimal gluten development.
• Loaf tin: Provides the perfect shape for your babka, allowing it to rise beautifully.

Ingredients

Quick Raspberry Jam (or use 160g thick store-bought jam):

• 1 cup (110g) fresh or frozen raspberries
• 3 tablespoons (40g) granulated sugar (or liquid sweetener, to taste)
• 2 tablespoons (14g) cornstarch / corn flour
• Squeeze of lemon juice, to taste (optional)

Babka Dough:

• 2½–3 cups (315–375g) all-purpose or bread flour (start with less and add more if needed)
• ⅔ cup (165g) warm dairy-free milk
• ½ cup (112g) vegan butter, room temperature
• 3 tablespoons (40g) granulated or coconut sugar
• 3 teaspoons (10g) instant dry yeast
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

Optional Glaze:

• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30g) water

How to Make Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)

Step 1: Make the Jam

1. In a small saucepan, combine all jam ingredients with a splash of water.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 5–10 minutes until thickened.
4. For a smoother texture, puree with a stick blender if desired. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Line a loaf tin with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl or stand mixer with a dough hook, combine all dough ingredients.
3. Knead for 5–10 minutes until soft, smooth, and elastic.
4. If too sticky, add more flour; if too dry, add a splash of milk.
5. Cover with a tea towel and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Shape the Babka

1. Lightly flour your work surface.
2. Roll the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 10×8 inches (25×20 cm).
3. Spread the jam evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Roll from the long side into a log shape.
5. Slice the log in half lengthwise to expose jam swirls; then twist the two halves together.
6. Place the twisted dough in the prepared loaf tin; cover and let rise again for at least 1 hour until puffy.

Step 4: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F).
2. Bake for 30–40 minutes until golden brown on top and skewer comes out clean.
3. If browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil and reduce temperature to 150°C (300°F).

Step 5: Make the Glaze (Optional)

1. While babka bakes, combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
2. Pour over babka while still warm from the oven.

Enjoy your homemade vegan Jam Donut Babka, warm from the oven!

How to Serve Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)

This vegan Jam Donut Babka is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion.

For Breakfast

• Serve slices with a smear of vegan butter for extra richness.
• Pair with fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas for a refreshing touch.

As a Dessert

• Drizzle with chocolate sauce to elevate the sweetness.
• Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a classic dessert presentation.

With Beverages

• Enjoy with coffee or herbal tea to complement the flavors.
• Serve alongside almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

For Special Occasions

• Slice and arrange on a dessert platter for parties.
• Package individual slices in decorative boxes as gifts.

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How to Perfect Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)

Perfecting your vegan Jam Donut Babka takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your babka turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right flour: Using all-purpose flour gives the best texture; bread flour can make it denser.
• Knead properly: Kneading the dough until smooth and elastic is key to achieving that fluffy texture.
• Let it rise: Ensure you give enough time for the dough to rise; this makes it soft and airy.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the babka while baking; if it browns too quickly, lower the temperature.
• Use homemade jam: Making your own raspberry jam enhances flavor and allows for customization of sweetness.
• Serve warm: This babka is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or warmed up slightly before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)

Pairing side dishes with your vegan Jam Donut Babka can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the babka.
2. Vegan Yogurt Parfait: Layer dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries for added texture and flavor.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding provides a nutritious balance alongside the richness of the babka.
4. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or peanut butter spread adds a savory element that complements the sweet bread well.
5. Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and airy, coconut whipped cream offers a deliciously creamy topping option.
6. Herbal Tea Blend: A calming herbal tea pairs wonderfully, enhancing flavors without overpowering them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Jam Donut Babka (Vegan), it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour, which can be compacted.

• Skipping the dough rise: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for texture. Don’t rush this step; aim for it to double in size.

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your dairy-free milk and butter are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can hinder yeast activity.

• Overfilling with jam: Spread the jam evenly but avoid going all the way to the edges. This prevents overflow during baking.

• Not checking oven temperature: Ovens can vary; use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Jam Donut Babka (Vegan) in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The babka can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Avoid overheating as it may become tough.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat. Cover and warm gently, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Jam Donut Babka (Vegan) gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s suitable for baking to achieve similar texture.

Can I use another type of jam?

Yes! Feel free to swap raspberry jam with any fruit jam you prefer, such as strawberry or blueberry, for different flavors.

What if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels sticky, gradually add more flour until it reaches a smooth consistency that’s easy to handle.

How should I serve Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)?

This babka is delicious served warm, but you can also enjoy it at room temperature. Drizzle with glaze before serving for added sweetness!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the babka and let it rise overnight in the fridge. Bring it back to room temperature before baking.

Final Thoughts

Jam Donut Babka (Vegan) is not only delightful but also versatile enough for various occasions. With its soft texture and sweet raspberry filling, it’s an instant favorite among both vegans and non-vegans alike. Feel free to customize your babka by trying different jams or adding nuts and spices for extra flavor!