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Simple Chocolate Marble Bread Recipe

A stunning Chocolate Marble Bread with rich swirls, tender crumb, and bakery-quality flavor—surprisingly simple to master with foolproof instructions.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf
Course: Bread
Cuisine: American
Calories: 295
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup lukewarm whole milk
  • 1 cup sugar divided
  • 2 tsp active dry yeast
  • 5 large eggs room temperature
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 6.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 6 oz unsalted butter softened
  • 1/4 cup cacao powder
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 –2 tbsp milk for chocolate dough
  • 1 large egg egg wash
  • 2 tbsp water

Method
 

  1. Mix lukewarm milk, 1/4 cup sugar, and yeast. Let stand 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Beat eggs and remaining sugar for 5 minutes until pale.
  3. Add yeast mixture, salt, and vanilla. Mix to combine.
  4. Switch to dough hook and add flour gradually, then softened butter. Mix until dough is slightly tacky.
  5. Divide dough in half. Mix cacao and cinnamon with one portion, adding 1–2 tbsp milk as needed.
  6. Roll each dough into rectangles, layer chocolate over plain, fold, and roll to marble. Cut into three strips and braid.
  7. Proof 45 minutes, then brush with egg wash.
  8. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 40–45 minutes until golden.

Notes

Ensure both dough portions have similar textures for clean marbling. Use a serrated knife for perfect slices.