Making baba dough

Using your hand to beat baba dough is more effective than a spoon.

Using the fingers of one hand, held lightly apart, bring the ingredients together to form a soft elastic dough. Beat with the hand for about 5 minutes, or until smooth.

Add the raisins and rum and beat with your hand to combine. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and pour the warm butter over the surface of the dough.

Cover and leave to prove for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in volume. Beat the baba mixture to incorporate the butter.