What is Babka? It's like if bread and cake came together to make one glorious baby. It is soft, sweet and delicious. You can't go wrong with a babka!
This requires a bit of time letting the dough rise but other than waiting around it is quite easy to make - and a little too easy to eat. If you're currently in self isolation or social distancing because of the coronavirus, it might be a good time to try recipes that you normally might not have the time for.
And if the dough gets messy, embrace the mess because it makes the chocolate swirls look better :)
RECIPE:
For the yeast: 2 tsp bakers yeast 3 tbsp sugar 1/2 cup warm water
For the dough: 3 cups flour 1 tbsp olive oil Pinch salt Warm water - as much as needed For the chocolate spread: 1/2 cup dark chocolate 1/2 cup vegan margarine/butter 1 tbsp cocoa powder 1/2 cup icing sugar *You can use a ready made spread too! 1. In a small bowl combine the sugar, warm water & yeast. Mix well and let it sit for 5 mins to thicken.
2. In a large bowl combine the flour, olive oil and salt. Add the yeast mix and slowly add small amounts of warm water until you form a soft dough. Switch to using your hands & add more flour if it’s too sticky but it should be a bit sticky.
3. Brush a large bowl with olive oil and place the ball of dough in it. Cover with cling wrap or a tea towel and let it sit for 1 hour to double in size.
4. Once it has risen, combie the ingredients for the choc spread in a saucepan over a low heat and mix to combine - OR you can use a ready made chocolate spread.
5. Transfer the dough to a clean floured surface. Knead very briefly and roll out into a rectangle. Add the chocolate spread on top and roll up into a log.
6. Cut the log in half lengthwise and twist around each other. Transfer to a greased bread or loaf pan. Let it sit for 15 mins to rise a bit more.
7. Bake at 175°C for 30 mins or until a skewer comes out clean. Let it sit for 15 mins then transfer to a cooling rack and let it cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!!
I usually leave this at room temperature overnight and then put it in the fridge the next day, if there is any left :)
