- start by soaking the raisins in hot water and brandy - soak for at least 1 hour - in a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast and sugar to activate the yeast - in a small bowl combine warm milk, yeast and sugar, set aside for 10 min to activate the yeast
- combine together flour, egg yolks, whole egg, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, lemon zest, poppy seeds, sea salt, activated yeast mixture, butter and raisins - knead the dough 15 min - liberally grease the baking pan and transfer the prepared dough into the pan
- cover the pan with a towel, place in a warm spot and let the dough double in size
- preheat oven to 350F - bake the Babka 45 - 50 min until golden brown
- remove the babka from the oven - let it rest and cool in the form for 10-15 minutes - prepare the lemon glaze - carefully remove the babka from the form and let it cool few minutes - glaze and enjoy