Chocolate Babka is a sweet and indulgent pastry that originated in Eastern Europe, specifically in Poland and Ukraine. The word “babka” means “grandmother” in Polish, and this delicious treat is often associated with old-world traditions and nostalgia. Chocolate Babka is made with a sweet yeast dough that is filled with layers of rich chocolate and then twisted and baked to create a beautiful swirled pattern. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or just as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea.
And here’s a recipe for Chocolate Babka:
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup whole milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup water
3 large eggs, room temperature
For the Filling:
8 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Streusel Topping:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
In a small saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter is melted. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the water and eggs.
Add the milk mixture and egg mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
In a medium bowl, stir together the chopped chocolate, softened butter, sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Roll up the dough tightly from the long end, pinching the edges together to seal.
Cut the rolled dough in half lengthwise to create two long pieces.
Twist the two pieces around each other, then pinch the ends together to form a ring.
Place the ring in a greased 10-inch tube pan and let rise for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a small bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and melted butter to create the streusel topping.
Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top of the dough.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the babka is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the babka cool in the pan for 15 minutes before removing and slicing.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Babka!
