1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Add the melted butter, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Chocolate Filling:
- In a small bowl, mix together the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate with the cocoa powder.
- Set aside until ready to use.
3. Assemble the Babka:
- Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 12×18 inches in size.
- Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log in half lengthwise, exposing the layers of chocolate filling.
- Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing upwards.
4. Bake and Serve:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Carefully transfer the twisted dough into the prepared loaf pan.
- Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
- Once risen, bake the babka in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the babka from the oven and let it cool slightly in the pan.
- Dust the top of the babka with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.
Conclusion:
With its soft, buttery dough and rich chocolate swirls, our Easy Chocolate Babka recipe is sure to impress even the most discerning dessert lovers. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee for breakfast or served as a decadent dessert, this babka is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Treat yourself to a slice of indulgence and savor the sweet satisfaction it brings.