rustic babà with custard

Rustic Babà with Custard: A Classic Italian Delight

Babà is a beloved Italian pastry, famous for its soft, sponge-like texture soaked in syrup and often accompanied by custard. Traditionally associated with Naples, this dessert has a rustic version that brings all the indulgent flavors with a more homemade touch. If you’re a fan of rich, syrupy cakes with a creamy filling, this recipe will be a perfect addition to your baking repertoire!

Ingredients

For the Babà Dough:

3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
1/4 cup (50g) sugar
1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
4 large eggs
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 tsp salt

For the Syrup:

1 1/4 cups (250g) sugar
1 1/2 cups (360ml) water
1/2 cup (120ml) dark rum (adjust to taste)
Zest of 1 lemon or orange

For the Custard Cream:

2 cups (500ml) whole milk
4 large egg yolks
1/2 cup (100g) sugar
1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Pour in the yeast mixture and mix until the dough starts to come together.
Gradually incorporate the softened butter, kneading the dough until it is smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes in a stand mixer with a dough hook).
Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Babà

Grease a large bundt pan or individual babà molds.
Transfer the risen dough into the prepared pan(s), filling them halfway.
Let the dough rise again for 30–40 minutes until it reaches the top of the molds.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the babà cool slightly before removing it from the pan.

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