Rising to the challenge

So turns out I am going to have some time on my hands over the next few weeks and what better way to spend it then baking!!

I have wanted to try baking babka since I saw it on bake off last year, but I think I opted for soda bread instead that week. Trying a sweet dough seemed like fun, especially with the chocolate and platting involved.

I used Paul Hollywoods recipe which thankfully was pretty clear and simple. I decided not to go with the hazelnuts and just have a chocolate filling, Chocolate is great to bake with but I really do hate washing it up, it just gets everywhere!! 

It was the first time in a while I used the stand mixer and hook to form and knead the dough, previously I found it hard to know when it was done without feeling it but actually I think having now had a bit of practice, it’s much easier to tell and is less messy/effort. 

 

I’ll admit, I don’t think the chocolate was spread evenly enough and I’m not sure if the dough had risen correctly when proving however once baked, it had a great rise so I’m going to take that as a good sign! 

I’m really happy with the chocolate effect going through the dough and it tastes pretty yummy but I think this is something I’d like to try and perfect in the future 🤎