15 May 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 50 min
Ingredients:
1 tsp yeast
2 tsp sugar
1 cup water
3 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup dark chocolate
2 tbsp dark chocolate
2 tbsp almonds
These Mini Chocolate and Almond Loaves are a delightful treat combining the rich, velvety taste of dark chocolate with the nutty crunch of almonds. Perfect for a snack or a decadent dessert, these loaves are sure to impress. Using simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can easily create these bakery-style loaves in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the yeast and sugar with warm water (around 110°F or 43°C). Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Create a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the olive oil and the yeast mixture.
- Stir the ingredients together until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the Dough:
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
- Place the kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Prepare the Fillings:
- While the dough is rising, chop the dark chocolate and almonds into small pieces.
6. Incorporate the Chocolate and Almonds:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead in the chopped dark chocolate and almonds until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Shape the Mini Loaves:
- Divide the dough into smaller, equal portions (the number of loaves you want will depend on the size you prefer).
- Shape each portion into a small loaf and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in greased mini loaf pans.
8. Second Rise:
- Cover the loaves loosely with plastic wrap or a damp cloth and let them rise again in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes, or until they have almost doubled in size.
9. Preheat the Oven:
- While the loaves are undergoing their second rise, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
10. Bake the Loaves:
- Once the loaves have risen, remove the covering and place them in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the loaves are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.
11. Cool the Loaves:
- Transfer the baked loaves to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Serve:
- Enjoy your mini chocolate and almond loaves plain, or with a light spread of butter or your favorite chocolate spread!
Tips:
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Toast the almonds lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor.
- Make sure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise in your bread.
- Let the loaves cool completely on a wire rack before slicing them to avoid any crumbling.
- If you prefer a sweeter loaf, you can add an additional tablespoon of sugar.
Enjoy your freshly baked Mini Chocolate and Almond Loaves with a cup of coffee or tea. Their rich flavor and delightful texture make them a perfect snack for any time of the day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Happy baking!