Ingredients and Weight:
- All-purpose flour: 500g
- Active dry yeast: 2 tablespoons
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Whole milk: 1 cup, warmed to 110-115°F (43-46°C)
- Unsalted butter, softened: 1/2 cup
- Chocolate chips: 1 cup
- Large eggs: 3, beaten
Preparation Time:
30 minutes
Cooking Time:
35-40 minutes
Difficulty Level:
3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the warm milk, softened butter, and eggs.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- While the dough rises, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two equal portions.
- Roll out one portion into a 12x18-inch (30x45-cm) rectangle.
- Spread the chocolate chips evenly over the surface of the dough.
- Roll up the dough tightly from the long side.
- Repeat steps 8-10 with the second portion of dough.
- Braid the two rolls together and place them in a greased 9x13-inch (23x33-cm) baking dish.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information:
Per slice (1/8 of the recipe):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 7g
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and decadent chocolate flavor
- Soft and fluffy texture
- Aesthetically pleasing with its braided appearance
User Comments:
- "This babka is absolutely divine! The chocolate chips melt in your mouth, and the texture is just perfect."
- "I've never had anything like this before. It's so unique and delicious."
- "The perfect treat for any chocolate lover."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to use active dry yeast, which is different from instant yeast.
- The dough will rise best in a warm, draft-free place.
- If you don't have chocolate chips, you can use finely chopped chocolate bars instead.
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.