The Baba
To prepare a delicious Baba, it is necessary to carefully follow each step of the recipe so that the final result is truly spectacular. We start by adding flour to a large enough pot that will allow the dough to rise. It is essential that the flour is sifted to ensure a fine and fluffy texture. We place the pot in a water bath to heat it gradually. In the center of the flour, we add the yeast, which has been previously diluted with a little warm milk. This step is crucial because the activated yeast will help the dough rise beautifully.
We add the beaten eggs, mixing carefully to incorporate all the ingredients. It is recommended to add the flour gradually, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. After integrating the eggs and yeast into the flour, we will gradually add the milk, continuing to mix for about five minutes. The dough should have a slightly liquid consistency, and once we achieve this texture, we cover the pot with a plate and wrap it in a blanket to retain heat. We will let the dough rise until its volume doubles.
In the meantime, we take care of the butter. We beat the butter with the two tablespoons of sugar and salt until we obtain a creamy, airy mixture. When the dough has risen, we add the whipped butter, mixing gently to avoid losing the air in the mixture. We grease a mold with butter, and then pour in the dough, being careful to fill the mold only up to ¾ of its capacity. We let it rise again until the dough reaches the edge of the mold.
Meanwhile, we preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and prepare the syrup. We put water with sugar and lemon peel cut into large pieces in a pot over the heat. Once the mixture starts to boil and the sugar has completely dissolved, we add the rum, mixing well but without letting it boil. After the Baba is baked, we take it out of the oven and generously soak it with the prepared syrup. It is possible to decorate with whipped cream, but the classic version remains simple and flavorful. Enjoy this moist and fragrant delicacy that will bring a smile to the lips of your loved ones!
Ingredients: 250 g flour, 4 eggs, 100 g butter, 20 g sugar (I put 2 tablespoons), 100 g milk, 15 g yeast, a pinch of salt (a teaspoon tip). Syrup: 1/2 liter water, zest of half a lemon, 1 and a half cups of sugar, half a glass of rum (alcohol).
