Why You’ll Love Chocolate Babka Recipe
Chocolate babka is a show‑stopping bread that tastes even better than it looks. The dough is enriched with butter, eggs, and milk, giving it a tender, brioche‑like texture, while the chocolate filling melts into every swirl for deep, dessert‑like flavor. Though the process involves a few steps, it’s highly rewarding, and the result is impressive enough to serve to guests or enjoy with family.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Dough
flour
active dry yeast
granulated sugar
kosher salt
lukewarm milk
large eggs
egg yolk
butter, softened
For the Filling
heavy cream
butter
granulated sugar
vanilla extract
chopped high‑quality dark chocolate
For the Syrup
water
granulated sugar
honey
Directions
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Prepare the dough by combining the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer. Add lukewarm milk, whole eggs, and egg yolk, then work in softened butter. Knead until the dough is smooth. Cover and refrigerate the dough for several hours or overnight to chill and develop flavor.
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Make the chocolate filling by heating heavy cream with butter, sugar, and vanilla. Add chopped chocolate and stir until melted; cool completely.
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Prepare simple syrup by simmering water with sugar and honey; set aside.
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On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread the cooled chocolate filling evenly over the dough.
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Roll up the dough into a tight log, then cut it lengthwise. Twist the two halves together with the cut sides facing up.
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Place the twisted loaf into a lined loaf pan and let rise again until puffy.
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Bake in a preheated oven until golden and cooked through.
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While still warm, brush the loaf with the prepared syrup. Allow the babka to cool fully before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
Yield: 1 loaf (about 9 servings)
Prep Time: ~20 minutes (plus chilling)
Resting/Proofing Time: ~9 hours 30 minutes
Bake Time: ~40 minutes
Total Time: ~10 hours 30 minutes
Variations
Nutella Swirl: Substitute the chocolate filling with creamy Nutella for a sweeter, hazelnut twist.
Cinnamon Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the chocolate filling for warm spice notes.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or pecans over the chocolate layer before rolling the dough.
White Chocolate: Use chopped white chocolate in place of dark chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
Storage/Reheating
At room temperature: Store babka in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for 5–7 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; thaw at room temperature.
Reheating: Warm individual slices in a low oven or toaster oven to refresh texture.
FAQs
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should be noticeably puffy and larger in size after proofing. If chilled overnight, it may not double in exact volume but will look relaxed and airy.
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast; adjust rising times as needed since instant yeast can work faster.
Why did my babka come out dense?
Dense texture can result from under‑kneading or insufficient proofing. Be sure the dough is smooth and elastic before chilling and allow adequate rising time.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely — you can prepare the dough a day in advance and bake the next day for fresh babka.
What type of chocolate is best?
High-quality dark chocolate bars work best for smooth, rich filling; chocolate chips may not melt as evenly.
Can I skip the syrup?
The syrup adds shine and moisture, but you can omit it if you prefer a less sweet finish.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Ensure the filling cools before spreading and roll the dough tightly to keep the filling contained.
Can I make mini babkas instead of one loaf?
Yes — divide the dough into smaller portions and bake in mini loaf pans; adjust bake time as needed.
Does babka need to be chilled before baking?
Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and roll, resulting in neater swirls.
How should I slice babka for serving?
Use a serrated knife and slice gently to preserve the swirls of chocolate throughout the loaf.
Conclusion
This chocolate babka is an elegant and deeply satisfying bread with layers of rich chocolate and tender dough. With a little planning and patience, you’ll end up with a treat that’s as delightful to bake as it is to eat, perfect for sharing or savoring slice by slice.
