1. Prepare the Babà Dough:
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and lemon zest (if using). Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Gradually add the softened butter, mixing until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a muffin tin or small cake pan.
Punch down the dough and divide it into portions. Fill the muffin tin or cake pan cavities about halfway.
Let the dough rise again for 30 minutes.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Syrup:
In a saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and orange zest (if using).
Bring to a boil and simmer for 5-10 minutes, until the sugar is dissolved.
Remove from heat and stir in the rum. Let it cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Custard:
In a saucepan, heat the milk until almost boiling.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch.
Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
Pour the mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens 1 and comes to a boil.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using).
Let it cool, covering the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming.
4. Assemble the Babà:
While the babà are still warm, gently remove them from the tin.
Place them in a deep dish and pour the warm syrup over them, ensuring they are soaked thoroughly.
Let the babà absorb the syrup for at least 30 minutes.
Once the babà are soaked, cut the babà in half, and fill with the prepared custard. You can also place the babà in a bowl, and spoon the custard over the top.
Rustic Touches:
Shape: Using a muffin tin gives the babà a more rustic, individual serving feel.
Syrup: You can add spices like cinnamon or cloves to the syrup for extra warmth.
Custard: Adding lemon zest to the custard adds a bright, fresh flavor.
Garnish: A dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries can add a beautiful rustic touch.
Enjoy your simplified and delicious rustic babà with custard!
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