Chocolate Babka

Indulge in the irresistible layers of this Chocolate Babka, a decadent braided bread that combines a rich, buttery dough with a luscious dark chocolate filling. Perfectly swirled with cocoa, brown sugar, and a hint of cinnamon, this stunning loaf is a show-stopping addition to any brunch table or dessert spread. With its pillowy texture and glossy, golden crust, this Chocolate Babka is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. The recipe's easy-to-follow steps guide you through creating the signature twisted pattern, while the slow rise ensures a tender crumb and deep flavor. Whether served warm from the oven or toasted with a dollop of butter, this homemade babka is a surefire crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Nutriscore Rating: 53/100

Prep Time:180 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:230 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 420 grams All-purpose flour
• 100 grams Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 2.25 teaspoons Active dry yeast
• 120 milliliters Whole milk
• 100 grams Unsalted butter
• 2 Large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 200 grams Dark chocolate
• 30 grams Cocoa powder
• 50 grams Brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 1 Egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon Water

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 37°C (98.6°F) and dissolve the yeast in it. Set aside for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine 380 grams of the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt.

Step 3

Add the yeast mixture, two eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough begins to form.

Step 4

Gradually add the butter, a couple of pieces at a time, while mixing continually.

Step 5

Switch to a dough hook and knead on medium speed, adding the remaining flour gradually until the dough is smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 6

Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm environment until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours.

Step 7

For the filling, melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a microwave or over a double boiler. Stir in cocoa powder, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Let it cool slightly.

Step 8

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 25x35cm.

Step 9

Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 10

Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Gently slice the log lengthwise down the middle using a sharp knife.

Step 11

Twist the two halves together with the filling layers exposed, then pinch the two ends together to form a loaf.

Step 12

Place the twisted loaf into a greased loaf pan, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.

Step 13

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) while the dough is undergoing its second rise.

Step 14

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and water to make an egg wash.

Step 15

Once the babka has risen, gently brush the top with the egg wash.

Step 16

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the loaf comes out clean.

Step 17

Allow the babka to cool slightly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 18

Enjoy your homemade chocolate babka, either on its own or with a nice cup of coffee or tea.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1175.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4300.4

Total Fat 176.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 95.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 806.9mg	0%
Sodium 2636.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 620.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 39.4g	0%
Total Sugars 255.8g
Protein 85.7g	0%

Vitamin D 152.7IU	0%
Calcium 545.1mg	0%
Iron 50.3mg	0%
Potassium 2910.2mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 36.0%

Protein: 7.8%

Carbs: 56.3%