This recipe combines a rich, buttery dough with a sweet chocolate filling to create a soft, delectable bread perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. The two dough layers provide a delicate, flaky texture that complements the gooey chocolate filling.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the First Dough:
- Salted butter: 125 grams
- All-purpose flour: 200 grams
For the Second Dough:
- All-purpose flour: 250 grams
- Salted butter: 25 grams
- Sugar: 5 grams (1 full teaspoon)
- Yeast: 2.5 grams (nearly 1 teaspoon)
- Warm water: 140 grams (pour gradually to avoid sticky dough)
For the Filling:
- Chocolate sprinkles or chocolate chips: to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the First Dough
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 200 grams of all-purpose flour and 125 grams of salted butter.
- Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Form the Dough:
- Gently knead the mixture until it comes together to form a dough.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Second Dough
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In another mixing bowl, combine 250 grams of all-purpose flour, 5 grams of sugar, and 2.5 grams of yeast.
- Add the Butter:
- Cut 25 grams of salted butter into small pieces and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add the Water:
- Gradually pour in 140 grams of warm water, mixing continuously until the dough starts to come together.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Rest the Dough:
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
3. Combine the Doughs
- Roll Out the First Dough:
- After resting, take the first dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 1 cm thick.
- Roll Out the Second Dough:
- Roll out the second dough to the same size as the first dough.
- Layer the Doughs:
- Place the second dough on top of the first dough.
- Fold the layered dough in thirds, like folding a letter, and then roll it out again into a rectangle.
- Repeat the folding and rolling process 2-3 times to create flaky layers.
4. Add the Filling and Shape the Bread
- Prepare the Filling:
- Sprinkle your desired amount of chocolate sprinkles or chocolate chips evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Shape the Bread:
- Roll the dough tightly from one end to form a log.
- Slice the log into even pieces to create individual rolls, or leave it whole for a loaf-style bread.
- Final Rise:
- Place the shaped dough on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
5. Bake the Bread
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake:
- Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 220 kcal
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 150mg
Tips and Variations
- Customize the Filling:
- Feel free to experiment with different fillings such as nuts, dried fruits, or different types of chocolate. You can also add a touch of cinnamon or vanilla to the chocolate filling for an extra flavor boost.
- Make it Sweeter:
- If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can add more sugar to the dough or sprinkle sugar on top before baking.
- Enhance the Flavor:
- For a richer flavor, you can brush the tops of the bread with an egg wash (a beaten egg with a little water) before baking to give them a shiny, golden finish.
- Serving Suggestions:
- This bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or tea. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Storing the Bread:
- Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply thaw and warm in the oven or microwave.
- Working with Dough:
- If the dough becomes too sticky during the process, lightly dust your hands and the rolling surface with flour. However, avoid adding too much flour, as it can make the bread dense.
- Experiment with Shapes:
- Instead of making rolls or a loaf, try shaping the dough into braids or twists for a visually appealing presentation.
Possible Questions
1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
- Yes, you can use unsalted butter, but you may want to add a pinch of salt to the dough to balance the flavors.
2. What if I don’t have chocolate sprinkles or chips?
- You can substitute with any filling you like, such as Nutella, jam, or even peanut butter.
3. How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
- The bread is done when the top is golden brown, and it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also insert a skewer or toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. This slow rise can develop even more flavor in the dough.
5. Is it necessary to layer the dough?
- Layering the dough creates a flakier texture, similar to puff pastry. While not strictly necessary, it adds a delightful lightness to the bread.
Conclusion
This Chocolate-Filled Butter Bread is a delightful treat that combines the rich, buttery layers of dough with a sweet, gooey chocolate center. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, this bread is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a bit of indulgence in their baked goods. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save it for later, the combination of flavors and textures makes this bread irresistible. Experiment with different fillings and shapes to make it your own, and enjoy the process of creating this delicious homemade treat!