Super Easy Chocolate Babka Recipe

Introduction

Super Easy Chocolate Babka is a delightful, indulgent pastry that combines the rich, deep flavors of chocolate with a soft, pillowy dough. This iconic Eastern European treat is the perfect combination of a sweet, buttery bread and gooey, molten chocolate filling, all braided together for a show-stopping dessert. While the traditional babka recipe may seem complex, this easy version simplifies the process without compromising on flavor or texture, making it a perfect treat for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Chocolate Babka is the ultimate dessert for holiday gatherings, family breakfasts, or as a special treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. The dough is tender and light, the chocolate filling is irresistibly rich, and the braided design makes for a beautiful and impressive presentation. If you’ve always wanted to try making this delicious pastry, this Super Easy Chocolate Babka recipe will guide you through each step of the process and leave you with a showstopper that is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Super Easy Chocolate Babka

• Rich Chocolate Filling: The gooey chocolate filling is made with rich cocoa and a bit of sweetness, creating a perfect balance of flavor that complements the dough.
• Flaky and Soft Dough: The dough is soft, buttery, and slightly sweet, with just the right texture to complement the chocolate. It’s easy to make, even for beginners.
• Visually Stunning: The braided shape of the babka creates a beautiful swirl pattern that looks as good as it tastes. It’s perfect for a special occasion or when you want to impress guests.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a brunch, or treating yourself to a cozy afternoon, this Chocolate Babka will fit right in.
• Simplified Process: This recipe takes the complexity out of traditional babka by simplifying the steps without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 3 hours (includes proofing time)
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 8-10 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18-22g

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Egg Wash:

• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tablespoon milk

Special Equipment

To make Super Easy Chocolate Babka, having the right equipment will ensure a smooth baking process and better results:

1. Stand Mixer (Optional): While you can make the dough by hand, a stand mixer makes the process easier, especially when kneading the dough. It will save you time and effort.
2. Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough evenly and to the right size, a rolling pin is essential.
3. Loaf Pan: A 9×5-inch loaf pan is perfect for shaping and baking the babka. You can use a non-stick loaf pan, or grease a regular one with butter to prevent sticking.
4. Baking Sheet: For catching any drips of butter or filling that might escape from the loaf pan.
5. Pastry Brush: A pastry brush helps apply the egg wash evenly to the top of the babka, giving it a golden, glossy finish.
6. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of ingredients, which are essential in baking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Start by activating the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the lukewarm milk with the sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. If the mixture doesn’t bubble, your yeast might be expired, and you’ll need to start with fresh yeast.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until the dough starts to come together. If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can mix the ingredients by hand in a large bowl, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes.

Once the dough is mixed, continue to knead for about 5 more minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should be slightly tacky but not overly sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a small amount of flour; if it’s too dry, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time.

2. Let the Dough Rise

Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This rising time is essential for a soft and fluffy texture in the final product.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Filling

While the dough is rising, prepare the chocolate filling. In a heatproof bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, cocoa powder, sugar, butter, and salt. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) and stir occasionally until the chocolate is melted and smooth.

Remove the bowl from the heat and let the chocolate filling cool to room temperature. It should be spreadable but not runny when you’re ready to use it.

4. Shape the Babka

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle that’s about 12×18 inches in size. Use your rolling pin to get an even thickness.

Spread the cooled chocolate filling evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Be generous with the filling, but don’t overdo it—just enough to cover the dough in a thin layer.

5. Roll and Slice the Dough

Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log, making sure to keep the filling inside. Once the dough is rolled up, pinch the edges to seal the roll.

Next, slice the rolled dough in half lengthwise to expose the swirls of chocolate inside. You should now have two long strips of dough with chocolate filling.

6. Braid the Dough

To braid the dough, place the two halves side by side, with the cut sides facing up. Pinch the ends of the dough together to form a starting point. Then, gently twist the two halves together, creating a braid-like shape. Tuck the ends of the dough under the loaf to seal it.

Carefully transfer the braided dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. If needed, gently adjust the shape to fit the pan.

7. Let the Dough Rise Again

Cover the loaf pan with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise again for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it has puffed up and nearly doubled in size.

8. Prepare the Egg Wash

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and milk. Brush the egg wash over the top of the babka to give it a beautiful, golden sheen when baked.

9. Bake the Babka

Once the babka has finished rising, place the loaf pan in the preheated oven. Bake the babka for 30-35 minutes, or until it is golden brown on top and cooked through. The babka will have a deep chocolate aroma as it bakes, and it will become golden and slightly crisp on the outside while remaining soft and gooey on the inside.

10. Cool and Serve

Once the babka is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the babka to a wire rack to cool completely. The babka is best served warm or at room temperature, and it’s delicious on its own or with a cup of coffee.

Tips for Perfect Super Easy Chocolate Babka

• Be Patient with the Rising Time: The dough needs time to rise properly, so don’t rush this step. Let it rise until it has doubled in size for the best texture.
• Use Good Quality Chocolate: Since the filling is made with chocolate, using a high-quality chocolate will elevate the flavor of the babka. Opt for a good semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate for the best results.
• Don’t Overfill: When spreading the chocolate filling, don’t overdo it. Too much filling can cause the dough to burst open as it bakes.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough and filling the night before, then let the dough rise in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, shape the babka, let it rise again, and bake.
• Baking Temperature: Be sure to preheat your oven to the correct temperature. Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures that the babka bakes evenly, achieving a golden crust without burning the chocolate.

Variations of Super Easy Chocolate Babka

• Nutella Babka: Swap out the chocolate filling for Nutella or a similar hazelnut chocolate spread for a different twist.
• Cinnamon Babka: For a spiced version, replace the chocolate filling with a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Fruit and Nut Babka: Add some

dried fruits (such as raisins or cranberries) and chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the chocolate filling for added texture and flavor.

Storage and Shelf Life

Super Easy Chocolate Babka is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later. Store any leftover babka in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store it for a longer period, freeze the babka by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw, simply remove it from the freezer and let it come to room temperature.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Super Easy Chocolate Babka

Pair this indulgent dessert with complementary treats and beverages to enhance your experience:

• Coffee or Espresso: The richness of the chocolate babka pairs wonderfully with a strong cup of coffee or espresso.
• Milk: A cold glass of milk complements the sweetness of the chocolate and balances the flavors.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries for a tart contrast to the sweetness of the babka.

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Conclusion

Super Easy Chocolate Babka is a wonderfully indulgent treat that combines rich chocolate filling with a buttery, soft dough. The braided shape makes it visually stunning, while the simplified process ensures it’s easy to make, even for beginner bakers. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this babka will become a go-to recipe that is sure to impress. Enjoy this delicious pastry with friends, family, or on your own—it’s a chocolate lover’s dream!