Babka

Babka is a sweet braided cake or viennoiserie that originated in the Jewish communities of Poland and Western Ukraine. It is prepared with a yeast-leavened dough that is rolled out and spread with a filling, then rolled up and braided before baking. Traditionally fillings included jam or nuts, though now include chocolate, cinnamon, fruit, or cheese. It can be made with butter, or to remain pareve it can be made with olive oil.

It is popular in Jewish communities worldwide, where it is also known as yeast cake or Ugat Shmarim (עוגת שמרים). It has also gained popularity with non‑Jewish communities.