Description
Chocolate Cherry Babka Muffins are a delightful hybrid of two beloved treats: babka and muffins. Babka is traditionally a sweet yeast dough, often swirled with chocolate, cinnamon, or fruit. By turning this classic dessert into a muffin form, we get all the indulgent flavors of babka in a portable, easy-to-make treat. The result is a buttery, soft muffin with rich chocolate and tart cherries, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
2¼ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 packet (2¼ tsp) instant yeast
¼ tsp salt
½ cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 tbsp (½ stick) unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling:
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp cocoa powder
2 tbsp powdered sugar
½ cup finely chopped dried cherries (or cherry preserves)
Optional Topping (for shine):
1 tbsp honey or simple syrup (for brushing after baking)
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine warm milk, egg, and vanilla.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry and mix until a dough forms.
Add softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, kneading until smooth and elastic (about 5–7 minutes).
The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
2️⃣ Make the Filling
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter and chocolate chips together until smooth.
Stir in cocoa powder and powdered sugar.
Let cool slightly, then stir in chopped cherries.
3️⃣ Assemble the Muffins
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with papers.
Roll the dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
Spread the chocolate-cherry filling evenly over the dough.
Roll up tightly from the long side into a log.
Slice into 12 equal pieces, and place each swirl into a muffin cup.
For more drama: twist each slice gently before placing it in.
4️⃣ Rise & Bake
Cover loosely and let rest for 20–30 minutes until slightly puffy.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
5️⃣ Finish
Brush warm muffins with honey or simple syrup for a glossy, bakery-style finish.
Cool slightly before serving — best enjoyed warm so the chocolate is melty! 🍫
Notes
For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or a simple glaze on top before serving. You can also sprinkle with chopped nuts or powdered sugar for added texture and visual appeal. These muffins are perfect slightly warmed with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 310
Keywords: cherry chocolate muffins, babka muffins, chocolate cherry muffins, soft babka muffins, babka-style muffins