Nut-Free Chocolate Babka

Indulge in the decadence of this Nut-Free Chocolate Babka, a twist on the classic braided bread that delivers all the rich, chocolaty goodness without any nuts. Perfect for serving at brunches, tea parties, or as an indulgent dessert, this babka boasts a pillow-soft dough with a swirl of luscious dark chocolate, cocoa powder, and a hint of cinnamon. The dough is enriched with milk, butter, and eggs, ensuring a tender crumb, while its glossy, golden crust is achieved with an egg wash before baking. This nut-free version retains all the traditional charm while making it safe for those with nut allergies. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or sliced and toasted the next day, this showstopping bread is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings.

Nutriscore Rating: 51/100

Prep Time:180 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:225 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 500 grams All-purpose flour
• 100 grams Granulated sugar
• 10 grams Active dry yeast
• 5 grams Salt
• 240 milliliters Whole milk
• 120 grams Unsalted butter, softened
• 2 Large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 200 grams Dark chocolate, chopped
• 20 grams Cocoa powder
• 100 grams Brown sugar
• 60 grams Unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
• 1 Egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Whisk to blend.

Step 2

In a small saucepan, gently warm the milk until it's just lukewarm. Add the softened butter and stir until melted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract.

Step 4

Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the milk mixture and egg mixture.

Step 5

Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.

Step 6

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 7

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Step 8

While the dough rises, prepare the filling by melting the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Step 9

Stir in the cocoa powder, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until smooth. Set aside to cool.

Step 10

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.

Step 11

Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 0.5 cm thick.

Step 12

Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Step 13

Starting from one of the long sides, roll the dough into a tight log.

Step 14

Slice the log in half lengthwise to expose the filling, then twist the two halves together.

Step 15

Transfer the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan.

Step 16

Cover with a cloth and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 17

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit).

Step 18

Brush the top of the babka with the beaten egg for shine.

Step 19

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the babka is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 20

Allow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1523.5 grams (1523.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	5435

Total Fat 238.80g	306%
Saturated Fat 142.00g	710%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.40g
Cholesterol 979mg	326%
Sodium 2388mg	104%
Total Carbohydrate 733.10g	267%
Dietary Fiber 38.40g	137%
Total Sugars 260.80g
Protein 97.30g	195%

Vitamin D 230IU	1150%
Calcium 739mg	57%
Iron 54mg	299%
Potassium 2940mg	63%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 39.3%

Protein: 7.1%

Carbs: 53.6%