Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsJoan's in the ParkSavory Chocolate Babka Recipe

Savory Chocolate Babka Recipe

Inspired by Joan's in the Park
Time2h 30m
Serves12

salted butter

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Ingredients

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Babka Dough

Method

Babka Assembly

  1. 1

    Prepare the Dough

    In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, warm the milk until it's lukewarm, then whisk in the eggs and melted butter. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

  2. 2

    Knead the Dough

    Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  3. 3

    Prepare the Filling

    In a bowl, mix together cocoa powder, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Melt the remaining butter and brush it over the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle the cocoa mixture evenly over the dough.

  4. 4

    Shape the Babka

    Roll the dough tightly into a log, pinch the seams to seal, and cut the log in half lengthwise. Twist the two halves together and shape them into a loaf, placing it into a greased loaf pan.

  5. 5

    Second Rise

    Cover the loaf with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

  6. 6

    Bake the Babka

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the babka for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool before serving.

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