Chocolate Babka — But It's Buns

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil reduces saturated fat while maintaining moisture.

dark chocolate

🥗Healthier: dark chocolate chips

💰Cheaper: semi-sweet chocolate

Semi-sweet chocolate is more accessible and less expensive.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk can reduce calories, while water keeps the dough hydrated.

powdered sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: granulated sugar

Stevia offers sweetness without calories, while granulated sugar is more affordable.

Warm the milk to support a nice rise and soak the eggs in warm water to avoid shocking the yeast.

In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, instant yeast, salt, and honey.

Add the warm milk and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients.

Add two whole eggs and one egg yolk to the mixture, reserving the egg white for later use.

Stir the mixture for a couple of minutes until relatively homogenous, then mix on speed four for 6-10 minutes until the dough is smooth.

Check the dough temperature; it should be between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal rising.

Place the dough in a container with a lid to prevent drying out and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Knead the dough briefly to strengthen it, then return it to the container to rise for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled in size.

Roll the dough into a rectangle measuring 10-by-16 inches, then cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes.

Prepare the filling by combining dark chocolate, brown sugar, salt, espresso powder, cinnamon, and cocoa powder in a bowl; stir to combine.

Roll the chilled dough into a larger rectangle measuring 12-by-24 inches (or 12-by-30 for more spirals).

Brush a thin layer of reserved egg white over the rolled dough to help the filling stick.

Sprinkle the filling evenly over the dough, then use your hand to distribute it to the edges.

Roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring even layers throughout.

Cut the log into equal pieces for the buns, placing them cut side up in a greased baking dish.

Let the buns rise for another 30 minutes before baking.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Brush the tops of the buns with egg wash before placing them in the oven.

Bake until golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens