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Chocolate Swirl Povitica

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Chocolate Swirl Povitica is a stunning dessert with layers of soft dough and a rich cocoa filling. This Eastern European-inspired treat features a beautiful chocolate swirl, making it perfect for any occasion. Its combination of chocolate, nuts, and buttery dough creates an indulgent treat.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast

1/2 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 large egg

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
  2. Make the Dough: Add the melted butter, salt, and egg to the yeast mixture. Mix well. Gradually add the flour, stirring until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the Filling: While the dough rises, prepare the filling by mixing softened butter, sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and chopped nuts (if using) until smooth and spreadable.
  5. Roll the Dough: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a 12×20 inch rectangle. Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the dough.
  6. Shape the Loaf: Roll the dough tightly from the short side into a log. Coil or fold the log to fit into a greased loaf pan.
  7. Second Rise: Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30–45 minutes, until it has puffed up.
  8. Bake the Loaf: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool the Bread: Let the bread cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve once fully cooled.

Notes

Optional Glaze: For added shine, you can brush the cooled loaf with a light sugar syrup or icing.

Nut-Free Version: Omit the walnuts or pecans from the filling for a smoother texture, or substitute them with other ingredients like dried fruit or chocolate chips.

Additional Flavoring: Add a dash of espresso powder to the filling for a mocha twist.

Nutrition