If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that takes the beloved flavors of Middle Eastern baklava and transforms them into a soft, buttery, and utterly irresistible pastry, then you’ve got to try this Baklava Babka Buns Recipe. These buns weave layers of sweet cinnamon, crunchy nuts, and sticky honey syrup into a pillowy dough that’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as an indulgent weekend breakfast. The combination of flaky pastry and rich filling creates an experience that’s both familiar and delightfully unique, making each bite an absolute delight. Once you try this Baklava Babka Buns Recipe, it’s sure to become one of your favorite ways to enjoy baklava in a fresh, new form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Baklava Babka Buns Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building the complex textures and flavors—from the tender dough to the crunchy nut filling and the luscious honey syrup that ties it all together.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the soft and elastic base needed to create tender, fluffy buns.
- Active dry yeast: Essential for making the dough rise beautifully and develop a light texture.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough, making it soft and slightly creamy.
- Unsalted butter: Gives the dough a velvety crumb and enriches the filling for that classic babka richness.
- Sugar: Sweetens the dough and the filling just enough without overpowering the flavors.
- Cinnamon and ground cardamom: Bring warmth and a fragrant spice profile reminiscent of traditional baklava.
- Chopped nuts (walnuts, pistachios): Provide the signature crunch and nutty flavor essential to baklava-inspired desserts.
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and a sticky glaze to finish the buns with luscious shine and flavor.
- Eggs: Bind the dough and create a golden crust when brushed on top.
- Lemon juice: A splash to balance the sweetness of the honey with a subtle tang.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall sweetness without overpowering.
How to Make Baklava Babka Buns Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by warming the milk slightly to activate your yeast—too hot, and it can kill it, too cold, and it won’t bloom properly. Mix the yeast with warm milk and a pinch of sugar, then let it foam up for about 5 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt, then work in the softened butter and eggs. Pour in the yeast mixture and knead until you have a smooth, elastic dough that feels soft but not sticky. Cover it with a towel and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, roughly an hour.
Step 2: Make the Nutty Filling
While the dough is resting, mix the chopped walnuts and pistachios with cinnamon, ground cardamom, and sugar. Melt some butter and stir it into the nut mixture to help bind everything. This filling will bring the irresistible crunch and spice that is the hallmark of the Baklava Babka Buns Recipe.
Step 3: Roll, Spread, and Shape
Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the nut filling evenly over the dough, making sure to smear it all the way to the edges. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it in half lengthwise, exposing the layers inside. Now, twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up so the filling shows. Form the twisted dough into individual buns or a single loaf, depending on your preference, then place on a baking tray and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the tops of your buns with beaten egg to give them that beautiful golden sheen. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until they’re puffed and golden brown with an intoxicating aroma of warm spices and toasted nuts wafting through your kitchen.
Step 5: Drizzle with Honey Syrup
Right after the buns come out of the oven, prepare a quick honey syrup by gently heating honey with a splash of lemon juice and a little water. Drizzle this syrup over the hot buns, letting it soak in and create a sticky, glistening glaze. This finishing touch is what transforms these babka buns into the ultimate Baklava Babka Buns Recipe experience.
How to Serve Baklava Babka Buns Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Baklava Babka Buns shine even brighter, top them with a sprinkle of extra chopped pistachios or finely chopped toasted almonds. A light dusting of powdered sugar can add a delicate sweetness and a beautiful finish, making your buns gift-worthy and visually stunning.
Side Dishes
These buns are so rich and flavorful that they pair wonderfully with simple accompaniments like a dollop of thick Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist. For a cozy breakfast, a cup of spiced chai or freshly brewed coffee is the best partner to enjoy alongside your buns.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Baklava Babka Buns Recipe into thick, generous pieces and serve on a platter surrounded by fresh figs, orange segments, or dates for a Middle Eastern-inspired spread. For a brunch crowd, stack smaller buns into a tiered display, making it easy for guests to grab and enjoy one (or two) with their morning tea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the Baklava Babka Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep the dough soft and the filling fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze these buns by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect against freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months and thaw completely at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Warm the buns gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to refresh their soft texture and melt the honey glaze slightly. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess and to preserve that freshly baked charm.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts in the Baklava Babka Buns Recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts and pistachios are traditional, feel free to experiment with almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts depending on your flavor preference or what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk and use coconut oil or vegan butter. Replace eggs with flax eggs or another egg substitute, but keep in mind it might affect the texture slightly.
How long does the dough need to rise?
You’ll want to let the dough rise until doubled in size, which typically takes about an hour depending on your room’s temperature. A warmer environment speeds up the process.
Can I make the honey syrup in advance?
You can prepare the honey syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Warm it slightly before drizzling over the buns to get that perfect glaze.
Are Baklava Babka Buns recipe buns suitable for freezing after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the buns after baking. Just make sure they cool completely before wrapping tightly to preserve freshness and texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Baklava Babka Buns Recipe that captures the soul of baklava while giving it a fresh new life through soft, sweet dough and a perfectly crunchy filling. It’s a recipe you’ll find yourself making time and again, whether for holidays, brunches, or simply because you deserve a treat that feels both exotic and comfortingly familiar. So, grab those ingredients and start baking—your taste buds are in for an unforgettable journey!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Description
This Bang Bang Chicken Bowl is a flavorful and colorful dish combining tender skillet-cooked chicken breasts with a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, served over fragrant jasmine or brown rice and topped with fresh, crunchy vegetables and garnishes. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that balances heat, creaminess, and freshness in every bite.
Ingredients
Protein
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
Base
- 2 cups jasmine or brown rice (uncooked)
- Chicken broth (for cooking rice, optional)
Vegetables
- 1 cup cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
Garnishes
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ¼ cup crushed peanuts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (for skillet)
Instructions
- Season and Cook Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
- Prepare Bang Bang Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, and 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha, depending on your preferred spice level. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and well blended.
- Cook the Rice: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the rice according to the package instructions. For extra flavor, use chicken broth instead of water to cook the rice. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
- Prep the Vegetables: While the rice and chicken cook, julienne the carrots and slice the cucumbers and bell peppers into thin strips or rounds to add a fresh and crunchy texture to the bowl.
- Assemble the Bowl: Start assembling your bowls by adding a generous scoop of cooked rice as the base. Arrange sliced chicken breasts on top, then drizzle a generous amount of the Bang Bang sauce over the chicken for that creamy, spicy kick.
- Add Vegetables and Garnishes: Top the bowl with the prepared fresh vegetables—cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. Sprinkle chopped green onions, sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, and crushed peanuts to finish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the sriracha quantity in the sauce to control the spiciness of your dish.
- For a healthier option, use brown rice instead of jasmine rice.
- You can substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the sweet chili sauce and sriracha are certified gluten-free.
- Leftover Bang Bang sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
