Fluffy chocolate cake

Fluffy Chocolate Babka: A Holiday Delight

Babka is a symbol of holidays, a sweet gift that brings together family and friends. Although I have never been a big fan of babka, this fluffy chocolate babka recipe has captured my heart irreversibly. It is undoubtedly the best babka I have ever tasted, and it surely won't be the last one I make. Inspired by Laura Laurentiu's recipe, I made a few personal modifications, and the result is a babka that invites you with its aroma of chocolate and orange essence, perfect for enjoying in the company of loved ones.

Preparation Time: 1 hour
Rising Time: 1 hour + 30 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Number of Servings: 10-12 slices

Ingredients:

For the Dough:
- 450 g flour 000
- 1 packet dry yeast
- 1 pinch of salt
- 100 g sugar
- 2 egg yolks + 1 whole egg
- 50 g soft butter
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 150 ml lukewarm milk
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- Grated zest of one orange

For the Chocolate Cream:
- 50 g soft butter
- 4 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons cocoa
- Orange essence
- 2 egg whites
- 3-4 tablespoons cornstarch

Step-by-Step Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Dough
Start by mixing the flour with the sugar and dry yeast in a large bowl. It is important to use high-quality flour, as it will contribute to the fluffy texture of the babka. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.

In another container, combine the lukewarm milk with the melted butter and oil. Make sure the milk is not too hot, as it could kill the yeast. Add the beaten eggs and mix well.

Pour the milk and egg mixture over the flour mixture. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and non-sticky. This is the moment when you can add the grated orange zest, which will give a delicious fragrance and refreshing flavor.

Step 2: Rising the Dough
Once you have a homogeneous dough, cover it with a clean towel and let it rise for an hour in a warm place. The dough should double in volume, and this process is essential for the fluffy texture of the babka.

Step 3: Preparing the Chocolate Cream
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the chocolate cream. Mix the soft butter with powdered sugar and cocoa in a small bowl. Add the orange essence for extra flavor. Finally, incorporate the egg whites (not beaten) and cornstarch, mixing well until you obtain a thick, but not too soft cream.

Step 4: Shaping the Babka
After the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll each piece of dough into a rectangular sheet on a floured surface. Spread the chocolate cream evenly over each sheet, then carefully roll them up, forming two rolls.

Now comes the fun part: braid the two rolls. This step not only adds a beautiful appearance but also ensures an even distribution of the filling. Place the babka in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Second Rising
Brush the babka with the egg yolk to give it a delicious golden color. Sprinkle a little sugar on top for a crispy crust. Let it rise for another 30 minutes, covered, to puff up even more.

Step 6: Baking
Preheat the oven to low heat (about 160-170°C). Bake the babka for 45 minutes. It is recommended to cover it with aluminum foil after the first 30 minutes to prevent burning. Baking time may vary depending on your oven, so check the babka from time to time.

Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Once the babka is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Now that you have a delicious babka, slice it and enjoy every bite.

Practical Tips:
- Use room temperature ingredients for better-risen dough.
- Experiment with fillings: you can add nuts, raisins, or even candied fruits for a unique flavor.
- If you don't have powdered sugar, you can use regular sugar, but the result will be more granular.
- The babka keeps well wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for several days.

Nutritional Benefits:
Chocolate babka is a rich source of carbohydrates, providing you with the energy needed for the whole day. Whole flour (if you choose to use it) adds fiber, while dark chocolate contains antioxidants and can improve your mood.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can the babka be frozen?
Yes, the babka can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
2. How can I enhance the flavors?
Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can intensify the flavors and add extra richness.

Pair this fluffy babka with a cup of aromatic coffee or a fruit tea for a perfect culinary experience. This quick and simple dessert will surely become the star of your holiday table.

Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and don't be afraid to experiment! Fluffy chocolate babka is more than just a recipe – it is an opportunity to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Bon appétit!