Chocolate Babka Recipe

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Begin by dissolving the active dry yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Then, add the yeast mixture, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.

2. Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

3. Prepare the Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the chocolate filling. In a bowl, combine the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.

4. Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Brush the melted butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

5. Add the Filling

Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the rolled dough. Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.

6. Shape the Babka

Using a sharp knife, cut the log in half lengthwise to expose the chocolate layers. Twist the two halves together, then shape it into a spiral or coil. Place it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.

7. Second Rise

Cover the loaf pan with a cloth and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until puffed up.

8. Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is rising.

9. Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk for the egg wash. Brush the top of the babka with the egg wash before baking.

10. Bake the Babka

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the babka is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

11. Cool and Serve

Allow the babka to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 3 hours (including rising time)

Serving Size: 10-12 slices

Tips & Variations

• For an extra touch, consider adding nuts or dried fruit to the chocolate filling.
• You can drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled babka for added sweetness.

Nutritional Information (per slice)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 2g

This chocolate babka recipe combines the sweet, comforting flavors of chocolate and cinnamon with a soft, fluffy bread. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert. With a little patience, you can create a stunning babka that tastes as good as it looks.