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Chocolate Babka

A beautifully baked chocolate babka, showcasing its rich, twisted layers of dark chocolate and soft, golden-brown dough. In the foreground, the babka is placed on a rustic wooden cutting board, with a few slices revealing the molten chocolate swirls inside. A sprinkle of powdered sugar dusts the top, and a small bowl of chocolate ganache sits nearby, inviting indulgence. The middle of the scene features a cozy kitchen atmosphere, with soft, natural light streaming through a nearby window, casting gentle shadows. The background includes hints of holiday decorations, like pine branches and twinkling fairy lights, adding warmth and a festive touch, creating an inviting, mouthwatering mood perfect for the season.

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
Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Rest Time 60 mins
Total Time 2 hrs 15 mins
Cooking Method:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 350  F
Servings: 8
Estimated Cost: 15
Calories: 280 kcal
Best Season: Available
Description

Indulge in this rich and swirly Chocolate Babka, perfect for brunch or dessert.

Ingredients
    Chocolate Babka Ingredients
  • 1 cup Warm Milk (Whole milk works best for richness.)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (Make sure it's fresh for proper rise.)
  • 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar (Balances the sweetness.)
  • 4 cups All-Purpose Flour (For a soft and tender crumb.)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (Enhances the chocolate flavor.)
  • 3 large Eggs (At room temperature for better incorporation.)
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter, softened (Adds richness and moisture.)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (For a hint of vanilla flavor.)
  • 1/2 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chips (Melts into swirls of chocolate goodness.)
  • 1/4 cup Cocoa Powder (Intensifies the chocolate flavor.)
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For a sweet glaze.)
  • 2 tablespoons Milk (To thin out the glaze for drizzling.)
Instructions
    Dough Preparation
  1. 1
    Prepare the Yeast MixtureIn 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.
  2. 2
    Mix Dry IngredientsIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
    Sifting the flour can help create a lighter dough.
  3. 3
    Combine Wet and Dry IngredientsAdd the yeast mixture, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
    Knead the dough until smooth and elastic.
  4. 4
    Incorporate ButterAdd softened butter gradually while kneading until fully incorporated.
    The dough will be sticky at first but will become smooth with kneading.
  5. 5
    Let the Dough RisePlace 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.
    6. Filling and Shaping
  6. 6
    Prepare the FillingMix together melted chocolate, cocoa powder, sugar, and cinnamon to create the filling.
    Adjust sweetness to your liking.
  7. 7
    Roll Out the DoughRoll the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
    Ensure the dough is evenly rolled to spread the filling easily.
  8. 8
    Spread the FillingEvenly spread the chocolate filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a border.
    A pastry brush can help spread the filling evenly.
  9. 9
    Shape the BabkaRoll 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.
  10. 10
    Transfer to Pan and ProofPlace 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.
    11. Baking and Glazing
  11. 11
    Bake the BabkaPreheat 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.
  12. 12
    Make the GlazeMix 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.
  13. 13
    EnjoySlice 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.
Keywords: Chocolate, Babka, Sweet, Decadent, Brunch
Read it online: https://bestrecipesblog.com/recipe/chocolate-babka/