Name: Chocolate Babka – Soft, Buttery Sweet Bread with Swirls of Dark Chocolate
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 180 min
Ingredients: 3.5 cups all-purpose flour; 2.25 tsp active dry yeast; 0.25 cup granulated sugar; 0.5 tsp salt; 3 eggs (large); 0.5 cup whole milk (warm); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup dark chocolate (chopped); 0.5 cup unsalted butter; 0.25 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp cocoa powder; 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about slicing into a freshly baked Chocolate Babka and revealing its dramatic, glossy ribbons of dark chocolate swirling through layers of soft, buttery dough. This iconic braided bread is rich yet airy, indulgent yet balanced, and perfect for everything from cozy autumn mornings to festive holiday gatherings.

If you’ve ever wanted to master a homemade babka recipe, this detailed guide will walk you through every step. From kneading the enriched dough to twisting in that decadent chocolate filling, you’ll learn how to create bakery-style results right in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re searching for a stunning brunch centerpiece or simply craving a slice of chocolate swirl bread, this recipe delivers elegance, flavor, and pure comfort in every bite.

What Is Chocolate Babka?

Chocolate Babka is a traditional Eastern European sweet yeast bread, deeply rooted in Jewish baking traditions. The word “babka” means “grandmother” in several Slavic languages, reflecting its homey, heritage-inspired origins.

Traditionally made with enriched dough similar to brioche, babka is filled with chocolate, cinnamon, or nuts, then twisted into beautiful braided layers before baking. The result? A tender, buttery sweet bread with striking chocolate spirals running throughout.

Over time, this Jewish chocolate bread has become popular worldwide, especially in American bakeries where it’s celebrated as both a dessert and breakfast treat.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Babka Recipe

Ultra-soft and fluffy crumb
Deep, rich dark chocolate filling
Beautiful braided presentation
Perfect balance of sweetness
Ideal for brunch, holidays, or gifting

Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade babka recipe gives you control over sweetness, chocolate quality, and texture.

Ingredients

Dough

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

Chocolate Filling

1 cup dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
½ cup unsalted butter
¼ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Simple Syrup (Optional but Recommended)

¼ cup water
¼ cup granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine warm milk and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Sprinkle yeast on top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer bowl), combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and activated yeast mixture. Mix until combined.

3. Add Butter

Gradually add softened butter, mixing until fully incorporated. Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise

Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 ½–2 hours, or until doubled in size.

5. Prepare the Chocolate Filling

Melt butter and dark chocolate together until smooth. Stir in powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon. Let cool slightly until spreadable.

6. Roll the Dough

Punch down the risen dough. Roll into a large rectangle (about 10×16 inches) on a lightly floured surface.

7. Spread Filling

Evenly spread the chocolate mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.

8. Roll and Chill

Roll tightly into a log from the long side. Chill in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to firm up.

9. Slice and Twist

Using a sharp knife, cut the log lengthwise to expose the layers. Twist the two halves together with the cut sides facing up.

10. Second Rise

Transfer twisted dough into a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise 45–60 minutes.

11. Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

12. Brush with Syrup

Simmer water and sugar until dissolved. Brush warm syrup over hot babka for shine and moisture.

13. Cool

Allow to cool before slicing to maintain clean swirls.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Swirl Bread

Use high-quality dark chocolate. Since chocolate is the star, choose at least 60–70% cocoa.

Don’t skip chilling before slicing. This prevents messy layers and keeps swirls defined.

Avoid overbaking. Overbaked babka becomes dry. Check at 35 minutes.

Room temperature ingredients matter. They ensure smooth dough incorporation.

Variations

Nutty Chocolate Babka

Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or hazelnuts to the filling.

Cinnamon Babka

Replace chocolate with brown sugar and cinnamon mixture.

Orange Chocolate Babka

Add orange zest to the dough for a bright citrus contrast.

Double Chocolate Babka

Mix mini chocolate chips into the dough itself.

Serving Suggestions

Warm slices with butter
Paired with coffee or espresso
Toasted with a drizzle of honey
Served as brunch centerpiece
Gifted during holidays

This buttery sweet bread also makes incredible French toast the next day.

Storage Tips

Room temperature: Store wrapped for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Up to 1 week (warm before serving).
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.

Cultural Context

Babka originated in Eastern Europe and became especially beloved in Jewish communities. Traditionally baked for Shabbat and holidays, babka symbolizes comfort, celebration, and family tradition.

Today, this chocolate babka recipe bridges heritage and modern baking trends, combining classic technique with rich dark chocolate indulgence.

Why This Recipe Works

The enriched dough provides structure while remaining tender. The balanced chocolate filling prevents overwhelming sweetness. The twisting technique ensures even chocolate distribution in every slice.

This homemade babka recipe delivers bakery-quality results without complicated steps.

Final Thoughts

Few baked goods match the visual drama and flavor complexity of Chocolate Babka – Soft, Buttery Sweet Bread with Swirls of Dark Chocolate. With its glossy layers, tender crumb, and rich filling, it’s both nostalgic and sophisticated.

Once you master this recipe, you’ll find yourself baking it for brunch tables, autumn gatherings, and cozy weekends alike.