Chocolate braided bread (Babka) Recipe

Chocolate braided bread (Babka) Recipe 

Ingredients:

To this easy, quick and yummy Chocolate braided bread (Babka) Recipe, you will need :

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour 
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar 
• 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt 
• 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed 
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled 
• 2 large eggs 
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 

For the Filling:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate 
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar 
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional) 
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 

For the Topping (Optional):

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 
• Coarse sugar for sprinkling

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1-2 hours. 

Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, cocoa powder, sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Stir in the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate. 

Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 16x12 inches). Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the dough.

Shape the Babka: Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the edges to seal. Cut the log in half lengthwise, exposing the filling. Twist the two halves together and shape into a loaf.

Second Rise: Place the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time. 

Egg Wash: Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.

Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool: Let the babka cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve: Slice and enjoy your delicious chocolate babka! 

This rich and sweet braided bread is perfect for breakfast or dessert! Enjoy!