Classic Chocolate Babka Recipe

Indulge in the rich and delightful flavor of a classic chocolate babka. This traditional Eastern European sweet bread is made with a rich dough and filled with a luscious chocolate swirl. Enjoy it as a special treat for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!

Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture. Stir well.
4. Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
7. While the dough is rising, prepare the chocolate filling. In a small saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and butter over low heat, stirring until smooth.
8. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
9. Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
10. Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
11. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log.
12. Cut the log in half lengthwise. Twist the two halves together, forming a braided shape.
13. Transfer the babka to a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for 30 minutes or until puffed.
14. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
15. Bake the babka in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
16. Remove the babka from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
17. Transfer the babka to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Interesting Facts