Discover the indulgent joy of homemade Chocolate Babka or Chocolate Bread , a delightful sweet yeast cake filled with plump raisins and a mix of dried fruits .

Learn how to make this traditional treat that's perfect for any occasion!

Here's a recipe for Babka, a sweet yeast cake with raisins and other dried fruits:

Ingredients:

  - 4 cups all-purpose flour

  - 1/2 cup sugar

  - 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast

  - 3/4 cup warm milk

  - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  - 2 eggs

  - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  - 1/2 teaspoon salt

  - 1/2 cup raisins

  - 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (such as apricots, figs, or cranberries)

For the filling:

  - 1/2 cup sugar

  - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

  - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the glaze:

  - 1/2 cup powdered sugar

  - 1-2 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

1- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and a pinch of sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.

2- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.

3- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

4- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface, about 1/4 inch thick.

5- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Spread the softened butter over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle the raisins and mixed dried fruits over the sugar mixture.

6- Starting from one of the long sides, roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.

7- Grease a loaf pan and place the dough into the pan, seam side down. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.

8- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Babka for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown.

9- Remove the Babka from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Remove from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

10- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled Babka. Slice and serve. Enjoy!

Nutritional Values:

All-Purpose Flour (4 cups):

  - Calories: 480

  - Total Fat: 1.6g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 96g

  - Protein: 12g

benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy and a small amount of protein.

Sugar (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 387

  - Total Fat: 0g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 99.8g

  - Protein: 0g

benefits: Provides quick energy, but should be consumed in moderation.

Active Dry Yeast (1 packet):

  - Calories: 23

  - Total Fat: 0.4g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 3.6g

  - Protein: 3.4g

benefits: Contains B vitamins and may support gut health.

Warm Milk (3/4 cup):

  - Calories: 90

  - Total Fat: 4.5g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 6.6g

  - Protein: 6.6g

benefits: Rich in calcium and vitamin D for strong bones and teeth.

Unsalted Butter, melted (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 814

  - Total Fat: 92g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 0.1g

  - Protein: 1g

benefits: Contains fat-soluble vitamins and provides energy.

Eggs (2 large):

  - Calories: 143

  - Total Fat: 9.5g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 0.7g

  - Protein: 12.6g

benefits: Excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 12

  - Total Fat: 0g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 0.5g

  - Protein: 0g

benefits:

  - Rich in Antioxidants: Vanilla extract contains vanillin, which has antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

  - Mood Enhancement: The aroma of vanilla has calming effects and can help reduce stress and anxiety.

  - Anti-Inflammatory: Vanilla has mild anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body.

Salt (1/2 teaspoon):

  - Calories: 0

  - Total Fat: 0g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

benefits:

  - Electrolyte Balance: Salt is crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the body, supporting nerve function, and muscle contraction.

  - Enhances Flavor: Even small amounts of salt can enhance the flavor of food, making it more enjoyable and satisfying.

  - Preservation: Salt can act as a natural preservative, helping to prevent the growth of bacteria in foods.

Raisins (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 217

  - Total Fat: 0.5g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 57.8g

  - Protein: 2.2g

benefits: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, may aid digestion and promote heart health.

Mixed Dried Fruits (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 217

  - Total Fat: 0.6g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 57.6g

  - Protein: 1.6g

benefits: Provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and may have antioxidant properties.

Unsalted Butter, softened (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 814

  - Total Fat: 92g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 0.1g

  - Protein: 1g

benefits:

  - Rich in Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Butter is a good source of vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are important for vision, bone health, immune function, and blood clotting.

  - Source of Healthy Fats: Butter contains both saturated and unsaturated fats, which provide energy and support cellular functions.

  - Improves Texture: In baking, butter helps create a tender and moist texture in baked goods.

Cinnamon (1 tablespoon):

  - Calories: 19

  - Total Fat: 0.1g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 6.3g

  - Protein: 0.3g

benefits: Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup):

  - Calories: 384

  - Total Fat: 0g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 99.5g

  - Protein: 0g

benefits: Adds sweetness but should be consumed in moderation.

Milk, for glaze (1-2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: 4-8

  - Total Fat: 0.1-0.2g

  - Total Carbohydrates: 0.3-0.6g

  - Protein: 0.2-0.4g

benefits:

  - Nutrient-Rich: Milk is an excellent source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein, which are essential for bone health and muscle function.

  - Adds Shine and Flavor: In baking, milk is often used to create a shiny glaze on pastries and adds a subtle, creamy flavor.

  - Hydration: Milk contributes to the overall moisture content of glazes, helping to achieve the desired consistency.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.