This vegan Jam Donut Babka is a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds: the soft, fluffy texture of babka and the sweet, sticky goodness of jam-filled donuts. It’s a crowd-pleaser for brunches, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for something special. With its enticing aroma and beautiful swirls, this babka will impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect even for beginner bakers.
- Irresistible Flavors: The combination of raspberry jam with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a truly unforgettable taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert, breakfast treat, or snack with your favorite beverage.
- Vegan-Friendly: Made without dairy or eggs, this recipe caters to various dietary preferences while still being delicious.
- Beautiful Presentation: The twisted shape and colorful jam swirls make for an eye-catching centerpiece on any table.
Tools and Preparation
To ensure your baking process goes smoothly, gather the essential tools before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
- Dough hook (if using a stand mixer)
- Parchment paper
- Loaf tin (8-inch/20 cm or longer)
- Small saucepan
- Rolling pin
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes kneading dough easier and faster, providing consistent results.
- Loaf tin: Gives the babka its classic shape and helps it rise properly in the oven.
- Rolling pin: Ensures even thickness when rolling out dough for the filling.
Ingredients
This vegan Jam Donut Babka is soft, fluffy, and filled with sweet, sticky swirls of homemade raspberry jam. Lightly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s finished with a simple sugar glaze that gives it that classic donut-inspired touch. It’s perfect fresh from the oven and best enjoyed warm!
For 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)
For 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
For Optional Glaze:
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30g) water
How to Make Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
Step 1: Make the Jam
- In a small saucepan, combine all jam ingredients with a splash of water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Simmer for 5–10 minutes until thickened.
- Optionally puree with a stick blender for a smoother texture. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- Line a loaf tin with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl or stand mixer with a dough hook, combine all dough ingredients.
- Knead for 5–10 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic.
- If too sticky, add more flour; if too dry, add milk.
- Cover the dough with a tea towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Babka
- Lightly flour your work surface.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 10×8 inches.
- Spread the cooled jam evenly over the dough while leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
- Roll the dough from one long side into a log shape.
- Slice the log in half lengthwise to expose swirl patterns; twist both halves together.
- Place twisted dough into prepared loaf tin; cover and let rise again for at least 1 hour until puffed up by at least 20%.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Bake for 30–40 minutes until golden brown on top; check doneness with skewer—should come out clean.
- If browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil and reduce temperature to 150°C (300°F).
Step 5: Make the Glaze (Optional)
- While babka bakes, combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves completely.
- Pour glaze over babka while it’s still warm from the oven.
Enjoy your warm vegan Jam Donut Babka as an indulgent treat!
How to Serve Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
Serving your vegan Jam Donut Babka is as delightful as making it. This fluffy and sweet babka can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its delicious flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
With a Cup of Coffee
- Pair your babka with a steaming cup of coffee for a classic breakfast or brunch option. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully.
Warm with Vegan Butter
- Slicing the babka while it’s still warm and spreading a bit of vegan butter on top creates a decadent treat that melts in your mouth.
Toasted with Fresh Fruit
- Toast slices of the babka and serve alongside fresh berries or banana slices for a refreshing contrast to the sweet jam filling.
Drizzled with Maple Syrup
- A light drizzle of maple syrup over the babka adds extra sweetness and creates a delightful sticky texture, reminiscent of traditional donuts.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Include slices of babka on a dessert platter along with other vegan treats. It makes for an impressive presentation at any gathering.
With Dairy-Free Ice Cream
- Serve warm slices with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or just because!
How to Perfect Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
To ensure your Jam Donut Babka turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Knead Thoroughly: Make sure to knead the dough until it is soft and elastic. This step activates the gluten, giving you that fluffy texture.
- Watch the Rising Time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is key. If it hasn’t doubled in size, give it more time before shaping.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients yield better flavors. Opt for high-quality raspberries and vegan butter for the best results.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your babka while it bakes. If it browns too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
- Cool Before Glazing: Let the babka cool slightly before adding the glaze. This helps it adhere better and prevents melting away completely.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to try different jams or fillings like chocolate spread or almond paste for unique flavor variations!
Best Side Dishes for Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
The Jam Donut Babka pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options to consider when serving:
- Fruit Salad
A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the babka beautifully. - Chia Seed Pudding
Creamy chia pudding can provide a nutritious contrast, making your meal feel more balanced and satisfying. - Coconut Yogurt Parfait
Layer coconut yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful smoothie bowl that complements the rich flavors of the babka. - Nuts and Seeds Mix
A simple mix of nuts and seeds offers crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the babka. - Herbal Tea
A warm cup of herbal tea can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing your overall tasting experience. - Vegan Cheese Board
Create a small cheese board featuring various vegan cheeses which can pair well with sweet notes from the babka, making for an interesting flavor combination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Jam Donut Babka (Vegan), it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can compromise your results.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale for dry ingredients and measuring cups for liquids to avoid inconsistencies.
- Skipping the dough rise: Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for developing texture. Don’t rush this step; let it double in size for the best results.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially dairy-free milk and butter, are at room temperature. This helps the dough come together smoothly.
- Overbaking or underbaking: Keep an eye on your babka while baking. Use a skewer to check; it should come out clean when done, but don’t let it brown too much.
- Ignoring flour type: Different flours absorb moisture differently. If your dough feels too sticky or dry, adjust with more flour or liquid as needed.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Jam Donut Babka (Vegan) in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
- Wrap the babka tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap babka in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a non-stick pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Jam Donut Babka vegan?
This recipe uses dairy-free milk and vegan butter instead of traditional dairy products, making it suitable for a vegan diet.
Can I use other jams besides raspberry for my babka?
Absolutely! You can substitute with any fruit jam you enjoy, such as strawberry or blueberry, for different flavors.
How long does it take to make Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)?
The total time is about 3 hours and 10 minutes, which includes prep, resting, and baking time.
Can I refrigerate my babka overnight before baking?
Yes! You can refrigerate it after shaping. Just allow it to come back to room temperature before baking.
Is this recipe difficult to follow?
Not at all! With some patience during the rising stages, even beginners can make delicious Jam Donut Babka (Vegan).
Final Thoughts
This Jam Donut Babka (Vegan) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different jams or spices according to your preference. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or warmed up later; it’s sure to impress anyone who tastes it!
Jam Donut Babka (Vegan)
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of making a vegan Jam Donut Babka, a perfect fusion of soft babka bread and sweet jam-filled donuts. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it ideal for both beginner bakers and experienced chefs alike. With its fluffy texture and irresistible raspberry jam filling, this babka is perfect for brunches, holiday gatherings, or a cozy dessert at home. The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the flavor, while the beautiful swirls and golden glaze make it an eye-catching centerpiece. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or warmed up later for an indulgent treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raspberries (fresh or frozen)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2½ – 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup dairy-free milk
- ½ cup vegan butter
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 teaspoons instant dry yeast
- Cinnamon and nutmeg
Instructions
- Make the jam by boiling raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a saucepan until thickened. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the dough by mixing flour, warm dairy-free milk, vegan butter, sugar, yeast, spices, and salt in a bowl. Knead until elastic; let rise for 1 hour.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread the cooled jam over it, roll into a log, twist halves together, and place in a loaf tin. Let rise again for about an hour.
- Bake at 340°F (170°C) for 30–40 minutes until golden brown. Optionally drizzle with a glaze made from sugar and water while warm.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (75g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
