Ukrainian Sweet Yeast Babka with Milk and Vanilla

Name: Ukrainian Sweet Yeast Babka with Milk and Vanilla
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 38 min
Total time: 158 min
Yield: 1 loaf, 10 to 12 slices
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Ingredients: 500 g all-purpose flour; 10 g instant yeast; 100 g granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp fine salt; 250 ml warm whole milk; 2 whole large eggs, room temperature; 100 g unsalted butter, softened; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 whole egg, beaten for glaze; to taste icing sugar, optional

A tender Ukrainian-style sweet yeast loaf enriched with milk, butter, eggs and vanilla.

By Savva LoginovUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 2 hr 38 minMakes 1 loaf, 10 to 12 slices

Jump to Recipe

This Ukrainian sweet babka is a soft enriched yeast bread with milk, eggs, butter and vanilla. The source title mistranslates babka as “dragonfly,” but its ingredients and method clearly describe a sweet yeast loaf. The dough is enriched, so it needs a patient first rise and gentle shaping; use a deep fluted or loaf tin and leave room for it to expand. Bake until deep golden and cooked in the centre, then cool before cutting. Serve plain, dusted with icing sugar or alongside fruit and tea. Combine flour, yeast, sugar and salt. Add warm milk, eggs and vanilla; mix until a soft dough forms. Knead 5 minutes, then add softened butter gradually. Continue 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Ukrainian Sweet Yeast Babka with Milk and Vanilla

How to tell when it is ready

Loaf is deep golden and centre reaches about 93°C (200°F); crumb springs back when pressed.

Tips

Use warm rather than hot milk.
Add butter after the dough begins to form.
Proof until doubled and puffy.
Cool the loaf fully before slicing.

Troubleshooting

If the mixture is too thick, add liquid a little at a time.
If browning too quickly, lower the heat and cover loosely.

Substitutions

Use a similar neutral cooking oil.
Choose a suitable dairy-free alternative where practical.

Variations

Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Add a suitable seasonal ingredient without changing the cooking cues.

Serving suggestions

Serve with tea or coffee.
Add fresh berries.
Spread with butter or jam.
Pair with plain yogurt for breakfast.

Make ahead

Prepare suitable components ahead and store them safely. Store airtight at room temperature up to 2 days or freeze slices up to 2 months.

Storage

Store airtight at room temperature up to 2 days or freeze slices up to 2 months.

Food safety

Contains dairy, eggs and gluten. Cool completely before wrapping; refrigerate any cream-filled variation.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make this ahead?

Prepare suitable components ahead, chill them promptly and finish the dish shortly before serving.

How should I store ukrainian sweet yeast babka?

Store airtight at room temperature up to 2 days or freeze slices up to 2 months.

Serve with tea or coffee. Store airtight at room temperature up to 2 days or freeze slices up to 2 months.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

Ukrainian Sweet Yeast Babka with Milk and Vanilla