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Rich, swirled, and beautifully indulgent, Chocolate Babka is a classic holiday bread known for its soft, buttery dough and decadent chocolate filling. With layers of tender bread twisted around a rich chocolate swirl, this bakery-style loaf is perfect for special occasions, holiday brunches, and cozy winter baking. Whether you’re searching for a traditional chocolate babka recipe, a festive holiday bread, or a Pinterest-worthy braided loaf, this chocolate babka delivers impressive flavor and stunning presentation in every slice.
Equipment List
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Rolling pin
- Sharp knife
- Pastry brush
- Cooling rack
Chocolate Babka
Description
Indulge in this rich and swirly Chocolate Babka, perfect for brunch or dessert.
Ingredients
Chocolate Babka Ingredients
Instructions
Dough Preparation
-
Prepare the Yeast Mixture
In a small bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.Make sure the milk is not too hot to avoid killing the yeast. -
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.Sifting the flour can help create a lighter dough. -
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. -
Incorporate Butter
Add softened butter gradually while kneading until fully incorporated.The dough will be sticky at first but will become smooth with kneading. -
Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours until doubled in size.Rising time may vary depending on room temperature.
Filling and Shaping
-
Prepare the Filling
Mix together melted chocolate, cocoa powder, sugar, and cinnamon to create the filling.Adjust sweetness to your liking. -
Roll Out the Dough
Roll the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.Ensure the dough is evenly rolled to spread the filling easily. -
Spread the Filling
Evenly spread the chocolate filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a border.A pastry brush can help spread the filling evenly. -
Shape the Babka
Roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the log in half lengthwise and twist the two pieces together.This twisting method creates the classic babka shape. -
Transfer to Pan and Proof
Place the shaped babka in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it proof for another 30-45 minutes.The babka should rise slightly during this time.
Baking and Glazing
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Bake the Babka
Preheat the oven, then bake the babka until golden brown and cooked through, about 30-40 minutes.Cover with foil if the top is browning too quickly. -
Make the Glaze
Mix powdered sugar and milk to create a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled babka.Add more milk for a thinner glaze or more sugar for a thicker consistency. -
Enjoy
Slice the babka and serve warm. It's best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.Reheat slices in the oven for a few minutes for a freshly baked taste.
Note
- Ensure the dough is well-rested and risen properly to achieve a light and airy texture.
- Use good quality chocolate for a rich and decadent filling.
- Don't overfill the dough to prevent leaking during baking.
- Brush the babka with a sugar syrup after baking for a shiny finish.
- Allow the babka to cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.