Introduction
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert or a special brunch treat, look no further than the Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist. This rich, buttery brioche-style bread is swirled with a luscious chocolate hazelnut spread and dotted with crunchy toasted hazelnuts. The result? A heavenly blend of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re making it for yourself, gifting it to someone special, or bringing it to a brunch, this babka twist is guaranteed to impress.
In this article, we’ll guide you step by step through the process of creating this decadent treat, covering everything from the dough to the filling, shaping, and baking. We’ll also share variations of the recipe, FAQs, and a final conclusion to ensure your babka twist turns out perfectly every time. So, let’s dive in!
What is Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist?
Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist is a sweet, braided bread that combines the delicate, buttery texture of brioche dough with the indulgent flavors of chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella) and toasted hazelnuts. It’s similar to other babka recipes but with a twist of chocolatey goodness that makes it truly special. Babka is a Jewish pastry that originated in Eastern Europe, and it’s known for its rich, doughy texture and flavorful fillings.
This version is enhanced with Nutella or a homemade chocolate hazelnut spread, making it a perfect combination of sweet, nutty, and creamy. The twist is a show of skillful braiding, which gives the babka its beautiful shape and flaky texture.
Origin of Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist
The origins of babka trace back to Eastern European Jewish communities, particularly in Poland and Ukraine. The word “babka” translates to “grandmother” in Polish, and it is believed that the name refers to the way the bread was traditionally twisted and braided, much like how a grandmother might braid her hair.
Originally, babka was made with fruit or cinnamon fillings, but over time, variations emerged. The chocolate version, like the one we’re discussing today, has become particularly popular in recent years. The addition of chocolate hazelnut spread is a modern twist that takes the traditional babka to a whole new level of indulgence. The crunchy hazelnuts elevate the experience, adding texture and a wonderful nuttiness that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist
Here’s a list of all the ingredients you’ll need to make this decadent dessert. It may seem like a lot, but trust us, the result is absolutely worth it!
For the Dough:
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¾ cup whole milk (warm)
- 4 tbsp sugar (divided)
- 3¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 115g unsalted butter (softened)
Filling:
- 1¼ cups Nutella or homemade chocolate hazelnut spread
- 1 cup toasted hazelnuts (chopped)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
Making the Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist requires a few steps, but don’t worry, we’ll walk you through it. Follow these directions for a perfect twist every time.
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
The first step is to activate the yeast. In a small bowl, combine the yeast, warm milk, and 2 tbsp of sugar. Stir well, and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes. It should become foamy and bubbly, which means your yeast is active and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a stand mixer, combine the flour, salt, and the remaining sugar. Once mixed, add the eggs, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
Step 3: Add Butter and Knead
Gradually add the softened butter to the dough mixture while mixing. Once the butter is incorporated, increase the speed and knead the dough for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. If you don’t have a stand mixer, you can knead by hand, but it will take a little longer.
Step 4: First Rise
Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 5: Shape the Babka
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a 16×25-inch rectangle. Spread the chocolate hazelnut spread evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts over the spread, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Form the Twist
Now comes the fun part—creating the twist! Roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from one long edge. Once rolled, cut the dough in half lengthwise to expose the filling. Carefully twist the two halves around each other, creating a braid-like effect. Tuck the ends of the dough under and place the twist in greased loaf pans.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the loaf pans with a clean towel and let the dough rise again for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. The dough should puff up and fill the pan.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Brush the top of the dough with the beaten egg to give it a golden, glossy finish. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the babka is golden brown and cooked through. You may need to tent the babka with aluminum foil halfway through the baking process to prevent over-browning.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Let the babka cool completely before slicing. This step is important because the babka needs time to set and become easier to slice. For an extra shine, you can brush the top with a sugar syrup once it’s cooled.
Variations of the Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist
While the chocolate hazelnut babka twist is divine on its own, there are many ways to put your personal touch on this recipe. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Nut-Free Version: If you’re allergic to hazelnuts or simply don’t enjoy them, try substituting the hazelnuts with chopped almonds, walnuts, or even a mix of dried fruit such as raisins or currants.
- Darker Chocolate: Use dark chocolate or bittersweet chocolate in place of Nutella for a less sweet but more intense chocolate flavor. You can also create your own chocolate hazelnut spread for a more customized taste.
- Cinnamon Babka: If you’re craving something a little more classic, replace the chocolate hazelnut filling with a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a traditional cinnamon babka.
- Caramel Filling: For a sweet twist, substitute the Nutella with a homemade caramel sauce or a salted caramel spread, adding an extra layer of sweetness to the bread.
FAQs About Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist
- Can I use store-bought dough instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use store-bought dough if you’re short on time. However, homemade dough will yield a much richer and fresher flavor. - How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover babka in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to 1 week. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months. - Can I use a different type of nut in the filling?
Absolutely! You can substitute hazelnuts with walnuts, pecans, or even macadamia nuts for a different texture and flavor. - Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before continuing with the shaping and baking steps. - Is this recipe difficult to make?
While the recipe requires a bit of time and patience, it’s not difficult. If you follow the steps carefully, you’ll end up with a delicious babka twist that’s sure to impress. - Can I use a bread machine to make the dough?
Yes, you can use a bread machine to make the dough, following the manufacturer’s instructions for sweet dough or brioche. - How do I get a perfect braid?
When twisting the dough, be gentle and don’t pull too tightly, as this can cause the filling to spill out. Try to keep the twist loose enough so that it bakes evenly.
Conclusion: Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist
The Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist is the perfect combination of indulgence, skill, and flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this rich, buttery bread filled with chocolate hazelnut goodness will certainly satisfy your sweet tooth. With its perfect combination of soft dough, chocolate hazelnut filling, and crunchy hazelnuts, every bite is pure bliss. Don’t forget to experiment with variations and make this recipe your own—whether it’s swapping out nuts or using dark chocolate, the possibilities are endless. Enjoy baking and savoring every bite of this beautiful twist!
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Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist Recipe: A Sweet, Buttery Delight
- Total Time: ~2 hrs 30 mins
- Yield: 10–12 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist is a sweet, braided bread that combines the delicate, buttery texture of brioche dough with the indulgent flavors of chocolate hazelnut spread (such as Nutella) and toasted hazelnuts. It’s similar to other babka recipes but with a twist of chocolatey goodness that makes it truly special. Babka is a Jewish pastry that originated in Eastern Europe, and it’s known for its rich, doughy texture and flavorful fillings.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¾ cup whole milk (warm)
- 4 tbsp sugar (divided)
- 3¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 115g unsalted butter (softened)
For the Filling
- 1¼ cups Nutella or homemade chocolate hazelnut spread
- 1 cup toasted hazelnuts (chopped)
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Activate yeast: Mix yeast, warm milk, and 2 tbsp sugar. Let sit 10–15 mins until foamy.
- Make dough: In a stand mixer, combine flour, salt, remaining sugar. Add eggs, vanilla, and yeast mixture. Mix until dough forms.
- Add butter: Gradually add softened butter while mixing. Knead until dough is smooth and elastic (about 10 mins).
- First rise: Transfer to a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (1–1½ hours).
- Shape babka: Roll dough into a 16×25″ rectangle. Spread chocolate hazelnut filling and sprinkle hazelnuts.
- Form twist: Roll into a log, cut in half lengthwise, and twist the two halves together. Tuck ends under and place in greased loaf pans.
- Second rise: Cover and let rise 45 mins to 1 hour.
- Bake: Brush with egg wash. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 40–45 mins until golden brown.
- Cool: Let cool completely before slicing. Optional: brush with sugar syrup for extra shine.
Notes
This Chocolate Hazelnut Babka Twist is a show-stopping bread that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With layers of rich chocolate and toasted hazelnuts swirled into soft, pillowy dough, it’s perfect for sharing at brunch, gifting to loved ones, or enjoying with a hot cup of coffee. A true crowd-pleaser for any special occasion!
- Prep Time: 30 mins (plus rising time 1.5–2 hrs)
- Cook Time: 35–40 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European / Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: Moderate
Keywords: Chocolate Babka, Hazelnut Babka, Chocolate Hazelnut Bread, Nutella Babka Twist
