Chocolate Yeast Bread Recipe (Sandwich Loaf)

Are you ready to elevate your bread-making game? This Chocolate Yeast Bread Recipe (Sandwich Loaf) is not just your average loaf. Imagine a soft, fluffy bread with a hint of chocolate that’s perfect for sandwiches or toasted with a bit of butter. It’s a delightful twist on traditional bread that will impress anyone who takes a bite. With the perfect balance of sweetness and rich chocolate flavor, it’s a recipe that you’ll want to add to your baking repertoire. Let’s get started!

The Upside of Chocolate Yeast Bread Recipe (Sandwich Loaf)

Chocolate yeast bread is a delightful departure from your typical savory loaves. The sweetness of the bread makes it incredibly versatile, whether you choose to use it for sweet or savory fillings. Here are a few reasons to love this recipe:

• Unique flavor: The combination of cocoa and yeast creates a rich, complex flavor that is truly irresistible.
• Perfect texture: This bread boasts a soft and airy texture that’s perfect for sandwiches or simply enjoying with a spread of your choice.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness and even add in your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate sauce or nuts.
• Impressive: This loaf is sure to impress friends and family, making it a great addition to any gathering or special occasion.

The Essentials

Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Here’s a list of ingredients that will come together to create this delectable bread:

• 1 cup warm milk (110-120 degrees F)
• 1 cup warm water (110-120 degrees F)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar (you could make it 3 tablespoons for a sweeter bread)
• 1 tablespoon dry active yeast
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

What You’ll Need (Gear)

To make the Chocolate Yeast Bread Recipe (Sandwich Loaf), you’ll need a few essential tools:

• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision is key in baking.
• Whisk: To mix dry ingredients and activate the yeast.
• Loaf pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan works perfectly.
• Kitchen towel: To cover the dough while it rises.
• Oven: Preheated to the right temperature for baking.

Chocolate Yeast Bread Recipe (Sandwich Loaf) in Steps

Now that we have everything ready, let’s walk through the steps to create this irresistible Chocolate Yeast Bread Recipe (Sandwich Loaf).

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and sugar. Sprinkle the dry active yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Once the yeast is activated, add the melted butter to the mixture. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients separately helps to evenly distribute the cocoa and salt throughout the dough.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough begins to form. If you’re adding white chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. You may need to add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.

Step 6: First Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 7: Shape the Loaf

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Shape the dough into a loaf by flattening it out, then rolling it tightly from one end to the other.

Step 8: Second Rise

Place the shaped loaf into a greased loaf pan. Cover it again with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes, until it has puffed up.

Step 9: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 10: Bake the Bread

Once the dough has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 11: Cool and Slice

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Make It Your Way

This Chocolate Yeast Bread Recipe (Sandwich Loaf) is versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas:

• Add your favorite nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture.
• Incorporate dried fruits like cherries or cranberries for a fruity contrast.
• Drizzle some chocolate sauce on top before serving for an extra indulgent treat.
• Try using different types of chocolate chips, such as dark or semi-sweet, for a varied flavor profile.

What I Learned Testing

Throughout the testing of this Chocolate Yeast Bread Recipe (Sandwich Loaf), I discovered a few tips that might help you achieve the best results:

• Temperature matters: Ensure that your liquids are at the right temperature when activating the yeast; too hot can kill it, and too cold can prevent it from activating.
• Don’t rush the rising: Allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size; this will ensure a light and fluffy loaf.
• Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter bread, feel free to increase the sugar to 3 tablespoons.
• Experiment with fillings: Trying different mix-ins can lead to exciting flavor combinations that make each loaf unique.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Chocolate Yeast Bread fresh and delicious, follow these guidelines:

Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, slice the bread and freeze it in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply toast slices directly from the freezer or let them thaw at room temperature.

Handy Q&A

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour. Just note that the texture and flavor may be slightly different, and you might need to add a bit more liquid.

What can I use instead of cocoa powder?

If you want a chocolate-flavored bread without cocoa powder, try using unsweetened chocolate melted and mixed into the dough, but keep in mind this will change the texture and moisture content.

Can I make this bread without a mixer?

Absolutely! You can knead the dough by hand; just be prepared for a bit of a workout. It’s a great way to engage with the bread-making process!

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?

The bread is done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The internal temperature should be around 190-200 degrees F.

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In Closing

Baking this Chocolate Yeast Bread Recipe (Sandwich Loaf) is an adventure that results in a soft, chocolatey delight perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich loaf, toasted with a bit of butter, or topped with your favorite spread, it’s a delicious way to indulge your chocolate cravings. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a slice of homemade happiness! Happy baking!

Chocolate Yeast Bread Recipe (Sandwich Loaf)

This Chocolate Yeast Bread is a delightful twist on traditional bread! Soft, fluffy, and with a hint of chocolate, it’s perfect for sandwiches or toast.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Bread

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Bread:

• 1 cup warm milk (110-120 degrees F)
• 1 cup warm water (110-120 degrees F)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar (or 3 tablespoons for sweeter bread)
• 1 tablespoon dry active yeast
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Loaf pan
• Kitchen towel
• Oven

Method

 

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, and sugar. Sprinkle the dry active yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Once the yeast is activated, add the melted butter to the mixture. Stir gently to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough begins to form. If adding white chocolate chips, fold them in now.
5. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
6. Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
7. Once risen, punch the dough down to release air bubbles. Shape it into a loaf by flattening and rolling tightly.
8. Place the shaped loaf into a greased loaf pan. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
9. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F while the dough rises.
10. Once risen, bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Slice and freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.
• Toast slices directly from the freezer for a quick treat.