If you’re looking to treat yourself to a delightful and indulgent baked good, look no further than this mouthwatering Chocolate Babka recipe. The beauty of this sweet bread lies in its rich chocolate filling and twisted shape, making it a perfect centerpiece for brunches, afternoon tea, or a cozy breakfast. Delight your loved ones with the heavenly aroma of freshly baked babka wafting through your kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe.
**Chocolate Babka**
*Ingredients:*
– 1 cup whole milk, warmed
– 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
*Instructions:*
1. In a bowl, combine the warm milk, instant yeast, and 1/2 cup of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Set aside.
3. Add the eggs and softened butter to the frothy yeast mixture and mix well.
4. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
7. While the dough is rising, prepare the chocolate filling by mixing the chocolate chips, cocoa powder, 1/2 cup sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl until well combined.
8. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
9. Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
10. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Slice the log in half lengthwise, exposing the layers of chocolate filling.
11. Twist the two halves together, creating a beautiful braided appearance.
12. Carefully transfer the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for an additional 45 minutes.
13. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the babka for 30-40 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
14. Allow the babka to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Indulge in the heavenly flavors of this Chocolate Babka while it’s still warm or save it for later enjoyment. This delectable treat is perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, and it also makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family. Enjoy the process of baking and savor the delicious results – your home will be filled with warmth and joy with every slice of this delightful creation.
