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Chocolate Babka: A Sweet, Decadent Delight

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  • Author: Lily Carter
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: ~3 hours (including rising time)
  • Yield: 1 loaf 1x
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Jewish, Eastern European
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Chocolate Babka is the ultimate indulgence—a soft, fluffy bread swirled with rich, dark chocolate filling and topped with a sugary crumble. This braided beauty looks as impressive as it tastes, making it perfect for special occasions or just treating yourself to something delicious. While it requires a bit of time and patience, the end result is well worth the effort!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Dough:

  • 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened

For the Chocolate Filling:

  • 6 ounces (170g) dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
  • 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For the Crumb Topping:

  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • In a bowl, mix warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle yeast on top. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
    • Add eggs, vanilla, and salt, then mix in flour gradually.
    • Knead in softened butter until dough is smooth. Cover and let rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled.
  2. Make the Chocolate Filling:
    • Melt chocolate and butter together in the microwave or over a double boiler.
    • Stir in sugar and cinnamon (if using). Let cool slightly.
  3. Shape the Babka:
    • Roll dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
    • Spread chocolate filling evenly over the dough.
    • Roll tightly into a log, then slice in half lengthwise.
    • Twist the two halves together and transfer to a greased 8×4-inch loaf pan.
    • Let rise for 30-45 minutes.
  4. Make the Crumb Topping:
    • Mix sugar, flour, and butter until crumbly.
    • Sprinkle over the babka before baking.
  5. Bake:
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Bake for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Cool & Serve:
    • Let cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
    • Slice and enjoy!

Notes

  • For dairy-free, use almond milk and coconut oil.
  • Use milk chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
  • Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (assuming 12 slices per loaf)
  • Calories: Approximately 377 calories
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg