If you’re craving a delightful twist on a classic favorite, this Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the soft, pillowy texture of traditional challah dough infused with a decadent swirl of chocolate that melts in your mouth with every bite. It’s sweet, rich, and irresistibly cozy, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a special dessert. This recipe blends the comforting aroma of fresh-baked bread with the luxurious indulgence of chocolate, creating a treat that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each one bringing something special to your Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread Recipe. From the fluffy texture created by the yeast and eggs to the luscious chocolate filling that adds an irresistible richness, every component plays a role in making this bread truly memorable.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives challah its signature chew and structure.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the yeast and chocolate.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: Essential for that beautiful rise and airy crumb.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F/43°C): Activates the yeast for perfect fermentation.
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warm: Keeps the dough tender and rich.
- 2 large eggs: Adds moisture, richness, and helps with the lovely golden color.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness and a tender crumb.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Imparts a warm, sweet aroma that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: The star of the swirl, delivering melty, gooey pockets of chocolate.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: Melts into the chocolate filling, making it luxuriously smooth.
- 2 tbsp heavy cream: Adds silkiness to the chocolate swirl.
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens and slightly thickens the chocolate mixture.
- 1 egg (beaten, for brushing): Gives the bread a glossy, golden finish.
- 1 tbsp water: Mixed with the egg wash for perfect shine and adhesion.
How to Make Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by waking up the yeast with warm water and sugar. Let the mixture sit until it becomes frothy, signaling that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic on your dough. This step guarantees that your bread will rise beautifully and have that wonderful soft crumb.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
Combine the yeast mixture with flour, salt, warm milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract to form a smooth dough. Place it in a lightly greased bowl and cover it to create a cozy environment for the yeast. Let your dough rise in a warm spot for 1 to 2 hours until it’s doubled in size. This slow rise develops those flavorful notes and tender texture unique to challah.
Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Swirl
While the dough is puffing up, melt together semi-sweet chocolate chips, butter, and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently to create a glossy, smooth chocolate mixture. Once off the heat, blend in powdered sugar for a luscious and slightly thick swirl that will be spread inside your dough ropes.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Divide it into three equal portions and roll each into a long rope about 12 inches long. These ropes will be the canvas for your chocolate swirl, so make sure they’re even and smooth for a neat braid.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate and Braid
Spread the cooled chocolate filling evenly along each dough rope, then carefully braid the three together, sealing the ends to lock in the swirl. This step is where your Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread Recipe truly comes to life, blending beautiful texture with striking visual appeal.
Step 6: Let the Bread Rise Again
Place your braided loaf on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely and allow it to rise for another 30 to 45 minutes. This second rise is crucial to achieve that light, airy crumb that is soft yet resilient to the bite.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the loaf with a beaten egg mixed with water for that gorgeous, shiny crust. Bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes or until the bread is deeply golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let your loaf cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the chocolate swirl set slightly and makes slicing easier. Now you’re ready to savor your homemade masterpiece mentioned in the Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread Recipe, a perfect harmony of soft bread and rich chocolate.
How to Serve Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your bread by sprinkling a little powdered sugar on top just before serving. A light drizzle of melted chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream will also add a touch of elegance and extra indulgence to every bite.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas, which bring a refreshing contrast to the chocolate’s richness. For brunch, add a side of creamy yogurt or a sharp cheese plate to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices warmed with a smear of butter or your favorite nut butter for a cozy treat. You can also cut the bread into cubes and toast them to make chocolate challah croutons — fantastic sprinkled over ice cream or stirred into sweet bread pudding.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover challah tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and soft for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread Recipe by wrapping the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months and thaws quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
To revive the soft texture and chocolate gooeyness, warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. A gentle heat brings back that freshly baked charm, making it taste as if it was just pulled from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate will add a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness if needed, since dark chocolate is usually less sweet than semi-sweet.
Is it necessary to use eggs in the dough?
Eggs contribute to the rich texture and golden color that makes challah so special, but if you have dietary restrictions, you could experiment with egg substitutes like flax eggs. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I make this bread vegan?
With some ingredient swaps like using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg replacer, you can create a vegan version. The chocolate filling can be made with dairy-free chips and coconut cream as well.
How long does it take to make the entire Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread Recipe?
Although the active prep time is about 55 minutes, you should also account for the dough rising times, which add up to 2 to 3 hours total. The results are well worth the wait!
Can I make this recipe without a stand mixer?
Definitely! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It’s a bit more work but allows for a great connection with the dough and you’ll still get a perfect, fluffy loaf.
Final Thoughts
This Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little extra joy and sweetness into your kitchen. Its elegant appearance combined with the irresistible chocolate swirl makes it a sure crowd-pleaser. Give it a go—baking this loaf is not just about making bread; it’s about creating memories and sharing something truly special with those you love.
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Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10-12 servings)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Jewish
Description
This Swirled Chocolate Challah Bread combines the traditional soft and fluffy texture of challah with a rich, gooey chocolate swirl, making it a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. The braided bread is filled with a luscious chocolate and butter cream filling, adding a sweet twist to a classic recipe.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warm
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Chocolate Swirl Filling
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
For Brushing
- 1 egg (beaten, for brushing)
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir to dissolve and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy, indicating it is active.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: Add the warm milk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix well until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
- Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Chocolate Swirl: While the dough is rising, melt the chocolate chips, butter, and heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and mix in the powdered sugar until fully combined. Let it cool slightly to thicken.
- Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into three equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope about 12 inches in length.
- Apply Chocolate Filling and Braid: Spread the chocolate filling evenly over each dough rope, then braid the three ropes together carefully.
- Second Rise: Place the braided loaf onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover loosely with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed.
- Preheat Oven and Brush: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water and brush it over the loaf to give a glossy finish.
- Bake the Bread: Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your soft, sweet, chocolate-filled challah bread!
Notes
- Ensure yeast is fresh and water is at the right temperature (about 110°F) for proper activation.
- If dough is sticky, add a little more flour, but avoid making it too dry.
- Allow the chocolate filling to cool slightly before spreading to prevent melting the dough.
- Brush the loaf with egg wash to achieve a shiny golden crust.
- Store leftover challah in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
