Basic babka –Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of Babka, a sweet, braided bread that’s rich, buttery, and wonderfully satisfying. This Not-So Basic Babka recipe will elevate your baking game and impress friends and family alike. Let’s get started!
Image of Not-So Basic Babka
Feast your eyes on this stunning loaf! It’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes.
Ingredients
To bake this delicious Babka, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet instant yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- For the Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Not-So Basic Babka:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, prepare the filling. Combine the chocolate, sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle the filling mixture evenly over the dough.
- Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seams to seal.
- Cut the roll in half lengthwise, exposing the layers. Twist the two halves together and place it into a greased loaf pan.
- Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the top with the beaten egg.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool before dusting with powdered sugar.
And there you have it! A deliciously intoxicating Not-So Basic Babka that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy baking and, of course, indulging in this lovely treat!