Ina Garten Chocolate Babka Recipe

This Ina Garten Chocolate Babka is one of the best and easiest chocolate babka recipes ever. This Ina Garten Chocolate Babka recipe is made with yeast-based dough, chocolate, almonds, and various flavorings like cinnamon and vanilla. It takes about 12 hours to finish cooking, including prep and rising time and can serve up to 8 people.

Serve this Jewish Chocolate Babka with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast, or with Pear Preserves as a dessert.

What Is Chocolate Babka

Chocolate Babka is a type of sweet bread made of yeast-based dough, filled with chocolate, almonds, and various flavorings like cinnamon and vanilla. This Chocolate Babka is usually served as a dessert or breakfast. Chocolate Babka tastes like a rich, chocolatey pastry with a hint of nuttiness and spice.

Babka originates from Eastern Europe, particularly in Jewish communities. The word “babka” comes from the Slavic term for “grandmother,” possibly because the twisted and layered appearance of the bread resembles the pleats of a grandmother’s skirt.

Chocolate Babka Ingredients

For The Dough:

• 1 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 large egg yolk plus 1 whole egg
• 1 3/4 cups bread flour
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

For The Filling:

• 1/2 cup blanched almonds
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons dark rum
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon finely grated orange zest (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 6 ounces semisweet chocolate

For The Streusel:

• 6 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large egg, beaten

How To Make Chocolate Babka

1. Prepare the Dough: Combine yeast, milk, sour cream, and eggs. Add flour, sugar, salt, and vanilla. Beat until creamy. Add butter and mix.
2. First Rise: Let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
3. Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 3 hours or overnight.
4. Prepare the Filling: Pulse almonds and sugar, add butter, egg, rum, vanilla, cinnamon, orange zest, and almond extract. Chill for 1 hour.
5. Shape and Second Rise: Roll the dough, spread the filling, and sprinkle the chocolate. Roll it up and let it rise for about 2 hours.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle streusel. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes.

How To Serve Chocolate Babka

I suggest serving Chocolate Babka with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Chocolate Babka also goes well with vanilla ice cream and fresh berries.

How Long Does Chocolate Babka Last

Chocolate Babka can last in the fridge for about 2 days. To store Chocolate Babka correctly, place it in a covered container to keep it moist and fresh.

Can I Freeze Chocolate Babka

Yes, Chocolate Babka can be frozen for up to one month. To freeze it correctly, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

How To Reheat Chocolate Babka

• If Chocolate Babka is refrigerated: Preheat the oven to 350°F and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• If Chocolate Babka is frozen: Thaw it at room temperature for a few hours, then reheat it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.

Chocolate Babka Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 of 8 servings

• Calories: 561
• Total Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 61g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 32g
• Protein: 10g

Try More Ina Garten Recipes:

1. Fig Ricotta Cake
2. American Flag Cake
3. Blueberry Scones With Lemon Glaze
4. Carrot Cake
5. Tres Leches Cake