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The Ultimate Indulgence: Homemade Chocolate Babka

chocolate_babka

chocolate babka

Cooking Method
Cuisine
Difficulty Beginner
Time
Prep Time: 2 hrs Cook Time: 35 mins Total Time: 2 hrs 35 mins
Servings 12
Calories 350
Best Season Suitable throughout the year
Description

The Secret to Making Perfectly Fluffy Chocolate Babka

chocolate babka1

chocolate babka

Chocolate Babka is a rich, sweet, and indulgent bread that originates from Eastern European Jewish traditions. It is a beautiful, braided loaf filled with a luscious chocolate filling, making it a perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave something sweet and comforting. The dough is soft and buttery, with a slight sweetness that complements the intense chocolate filling perfectly. When baked, the chocolate babka forms a golden-brown, slightly crispy crust, while the inside remains soft, gooey, and packed with flavor.

This decadent bread is not just visually stunning but also has an unforgettable texture. The dough is lightly sweetened and enriched with butter and eggs, giving it a tender, airy crumb. The filling is made from a combination of semi-sweet chocolate, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar, providing a rich chocolate flavor that's neither too sweet nor too bitter. As the chocolate babka bakes, the chocolate melts into the dough, creating layers of gooey, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The twisty, braided shape of the babka adds to its charm, making it a wonderful centerpiece for any occasion, whether it's a festive gathering or a cozy family breakfast.

Baked to golden perfection, chocolate babka is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, though it also stores well for a few days if wrapped tightly. Its versatility and irresistible flavor have made it a beloved pastry around the world. Whether served with a cup of coffee or as a dessert at the end of a meal, chocolate babka never fails to impress.

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Ingredients
    Dough:
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup water (if needed)
    • Chocolate Filling:
  • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • Egg Wash:
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon water
Instructions

    1. Prepare the Dough:

      • In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the eggs, lukewarm milk, and vanilla extract, and stir to combine.
      • Gradually add in the softened butter and knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit of flour or water as needed.
      • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.

    2. Prepare the Chocolate Filling:

      • In a medium bowl, melt the butter. Add the chocolate chips and stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
      • Stir in the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Set aside to cool slightly.

    3. Assemble the Babka:

      • Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
      • Spread the chocolate filling evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
      • Roll the dough tightly from one edge, and then slice the roll lengthwise to expose the layers.
      • Twist the two pieces together into a braid, making sure to seal the ends and tuck them under.

    4. Proof and Bake:

      • Place the babka into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan, cover, and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes.
      • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top of the babka with the beaten egg wash.
      • Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

    5. Cool and Serve:

      • Let the babka cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12

Amount Per Serving
Calories 350kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 19g30%
Saturated Fat 11g56%
Cholesterol 45mg15%
Sodium 150mg7%
Total Carbohydrate 44g15%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 20g
Protein 5g10%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note
  • Resting Time: Be sure to give the dough enough time to rise. It’s key to achieving a light and fluffy texture.
  • Chocolate Filling: You can adjust the filling by adding more or less sugar depending on your sweetness preference.
  • Topping Ideas: You can drizzle the babka with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk for an extra touch.
  • Freezing: Babka can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let it thaw before baking.
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