Babka Recipe

Directions

1. 1
   In a small mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in the hot water with a healthy pinch of sugar.
2. 2
   Let stand about 10 min till foamy.
3. 3
   In a very large bowl, combine the yeast mix, 2 c. of the flour, the 3 whole Large eggs, 4 egg yolks, sugar, lowfat milk and orange zest; mix well.
4. 4
   Add in the remaining flour, 1 c. at a time, till the dough comes together.
5. 5
   Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead till smooth and supple, about 5 min.
6. 6
   Flatten the dough out with your hands and dot 1/3 c. of the butter on the dough.
7. 7
   Fold up the dough and knead gently to incorporate the butter into the dough.
8. 8
   Repeat with another 1/3 c. and then with the last 1/3 c. of butter, till all of the butter is incorporated.
9. 9
   Again flatten the dough with your hands and sprinkle with the raisins.
10. 10
    Fold up and knead to incorporate the raisins.
11. 11
    Lightly oil a large mixing bowl.
12. 12
    Place the dough in the bowl and turn the dough to lightly coat with oil.
13. 13
    Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let stand in a hot place till doubled in volume; about 1 hour.
14. 14
    Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and divide into two equal size pcs.
15. 15
    Form each piece into a loaf and place them in two lightly greased 9x5 in (23x12cm) loaf pans.
16. 16
    Again cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a hot place till doubled, about 40 min.
17. 17
    Preheat oven to 350F (180C).
18. 18
    Brush the tops of the loaves with egg whites (you won't use all 4 of the egg whites...just a nice brushing will do) and bake at 350F (180C) for 30 to 40 min, till the top of the loaves are golden brown and the loaves sound hollow when tapped.