This Chocolate Cream Braid combines the elegant texture of a light, fluffy dough with the rich indulgence of chocolate and custard. An ideal treat for those who appreciate the art of baking, this recipe uses a simple yet versatile dough, enriched with butter and vanilla, which is braided with layers of creamy custard and chocolate chips for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Why You'll Love This: The standout feature of this braid is its visually appealing design paired with the luxurious taste of chocolate and custard. The dough itself is soft and slightly sweet, providing the perfect backdrop for the creamy and chocolaty filling. It's not just delicious but also a treat for the eyes, making it perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a special snack.
Perfect Occasion: This Chocolate Cream Braid is great for gatherings, brunches, or as an afternoon treat. It’s also a fantastic choice for festive occasions like Easter or Christmas, where its elegant appearance and delightful taste can shine as part of the holiday spread.
Decoration Tips: Before baking, you can brush the braid with a simple egg wash to give it a golden, shiny finish. Sprinkling some pearl sugar or sliced almonds on top before baking adds a nice texture and visual appeal. Serve slices with a dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle with a chocolate glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 600g high-gluten flour (like bread flour)
- 80g sugar
- 90g butter, softened
- 250ml milk
- 10g fresh yeast
- 1 egg
- 3g salt
- Vanilla essence
For the filling:
- Chocolate chips, as needed
- Custard made in a Thermomix or traditional pastry cream (500ml milk, 2 eggs, 40g cornstarch, 100g sugar, vanilla)
- Prepare the Dough:
- Dissolve the yeast in warm milk. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour, sugar, vanilla essence, and the egg. Start mixing and gradually add the yeast-milk mixture.
- Once the ingredients start to come together, add the salt and slowly incorporate the softened butter. Increase the speed and knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place, like an oven with the light on, until it doubles in size.
- Shape and Fill:
- Once risen, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle. Spread a layer of custard over the dough and sprinkle with chocolate chips.
- Cut slits along both sides of the dough, leaving the center uncut for the fillings. Braid the strips over the center to cover the filling completely.
- Carefully transfer the braided dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let it rise again in a warm place for about an hour.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the braid for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Allow the braid to cool slightly before slicing. This Chocolate Cream Braid is best enjoyed warm, making it a cozy and indulgent treat that's sure to impress at any gathering.
Enjoy this delightful baking project, perfect for those looking to impress with a homemade, bakery-style treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate and custard in a beautiful presentation.