This Soft Cocoa Swirl Sweet Bread is a tender, melt-in-your-mouth baked delight made with a pillowy yeast dough and filled with luscious hazelnut cream. The beautiful two-tone swirl from the plain and cocoa dough layers adds not only charm but also flavor depth. Topped with a glossy finish and bursting with soft, sweet aroma, it’s perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or even a festive brunch centerpiece.
The combination of soft dough, rich cocoa, and creamy filling makes every bite irresistible. Whether served warm with a drizzle of jam or enjoyed with coffee, this bread is guaranteed to impress your guests—or just spoil yourself a little.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Time
Preparation Time: 25 minutes (plus 90–120 minutes rising time)
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 8–10 servings
Cuisine: European-inspired sweet bread
Ingredients
For the Dough:
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10 g dry yeast
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50 g sugar
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300 ml warm milk
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50 ml vegetable oil
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1 large egg
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550 g all-purpose flour
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1 tbsp butter, softened
For the Cocoa Dough Half:
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2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
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2 tbsp milk
For the Filling and Glaze:
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6–8 tbsp hazelnut cream (such as Nutella or similar)
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1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp milk (for brushing)
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A small amount of jam or melted butter (for brushing after baking)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
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In a mixing bowl, dissolve the dry yeast and sugar in warm milk. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until bubbly.
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Add the oil and the egg, whisk to combine.
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Gradually incorporate the flour, stirring until a soft dough begins to form.
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Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Add the tablespoon of softened butter and knead until fully absorbed. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 2: Divide and Flavor
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Divide the dough into two equal parts.
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To one part, add the cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of milk. Knead until the cocoa is evenly distributed and the dough is rich and chocolatey in color.
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Leave both dough portions in separate bowls, cover with a cloth, and let them rest for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
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Roll out each dough portion into a rectangle of similar size.
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Place the cocoa dough on top of the plain dough (or vice versa) and press gently.
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Spread a generous layer of hazelnut cream over the surface.
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Starting from the longer edge, roll the dough into a log.
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Slice the log down the center lengthwise, revealing the swirled layers.
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Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up for a beautiful braided look.
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Place into a greased or parchment-lined loaf pan or baking dish.
Step 4: Final Rise and Bake
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Cover and let the shaped bread rise in a warm spot until nearly doubled in size (about 30–45 minutes).
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Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
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Brush the top with the egg yolk and milk mixture.
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Bake for 35 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
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While still warm, brush the top with a bit of jam or melted butter to create a glossy finish.
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Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve slices warm with a cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of cold milk.
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Top with extra hazelnut spread or fruit preserves for an indulgent treat.
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Great for brunch tables, holiday breakfasts, or afternoon snacks.
Cooking Tips
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Ensure your milk is warm—not hot—to activate the yeast properly.
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Use high-quality cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor.
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Let the dough rise in a draft-free, warm spot for best results.
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Don’t skip the glossy finish—it adds a bakery-quality look and a soft bite.
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Slice with a serrated knife for clean swirls.
Nutritional Benefits
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Eggs and milk offer high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
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Cocoa adds antioxidants and mood-boosting properties.
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Hazelnuts (in the cream) provide healthy fats and vitamin E.
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Yeast dough gives energy through slow-releasing carbohydrates.
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A feel-good, occasional treat with both taste and texture satisfaction.
Dietary Information
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Vegetarian-friendly
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Can be made dairy-free with plant milk, oil instead of butter, and dairy-free chocolate spread
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Not gluten-free – substitute with GF all-purpose flour blend if needed and adjust hydration
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 6g
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Fat: 13g
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Carbohydrates: 42g
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Sugar: 14g
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Calcium: 70mg
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Iron: 2mg
Storage
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Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
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Reheat slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for best texture.
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To freeze: wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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The swirl of cocoa and vanilla dough makes it visually stunning
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Hazelnut cream adds indulgent flavor without excessive prep
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Soft, buttery texture stays moist for days
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Simple ingredients, impressive results
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Versatile: breakfast, dessert, snack, or holiday table centerpiece
Recipe Conclusion
This Soft Cocoa Swirl Sweet Bread with Hazelnut Filling is the kind of recipe that brings comfort, beauty, and indulgence to your kitchen. With its fragrant layers, tender bite, and gooey chocolate center, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite. The dual dough layers add a stunning visual twist, while the rich yet balanced flavor makes it perfect for both everyday moments and festive occasions.
Serve it warm, share it with friends, or keep it all to yourself—you deserve a slice of something this delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes! Use the same amount and reduce rise time slightly.
2. What kind of flour is best?
All-purpose flour works great. Bread flour gives a slightly chewier texture.
3. Can I use cocoa powder with sugar added?
Stick to unsweetened cocoa for best flavor control.
4. How long does it stay fresh?
Up to 3 days at room temperature in a sealed container.
5. Can I use a stand mixer?
Absolutely—use the dough hook and knead for 6–7 minutes until smooth.
6. Can I use jam instead of hazelnut spread?
Yes! Raspberry, apricot, or cherry jam make great variations.
7. Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze after baking and cooling. Reheat before serving.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, it scales beautifully. Use a larger pan or divide into two loaves.
9. Can I skip the cocoa swirl?
You can make it plain, but the cocoa adds flavor and visual appeal.
10. Why brush with jam or butter at the end?
It enhances softness and gives a beautiful glossy bakery-style finish.