Cinnamon-Chocolate Chip Bread

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. (5-10 minutes)

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and salt with the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined. (1 minute)

Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the bread flour, stirring until the dough comes together and is no longer sticky. You may need to add a little more flour. (5 minutes)

Knead the Dough: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface or in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. (10 minutes)

First Rise: Transfer the dough to a large bowl coated with cooking spray, turning to coat. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size. (1 hour)

Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the filling. Set aside. (2 minutes)

Shape the Bread: Once the dough has doubled, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough into a 9x18-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface. (5 minutes)

Add Filling: Brush the melted butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle with all but 3 tablespoons of the cinnamon-sugar mixture, then scatter the chopped chocolate evenly over the top. (3 minutes)

Roll and Place: Carefully roll the dough tightly, starting from the short end, and pinch the seam to seal. Place the loaf, seam-side down, in a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. (3 minutes)

Second Rise: Cover the pan and let the dough rise again in a warm place until doubled in size. (1 hour)

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). (10 minutes)

Egg Wash and Topping: Brush the top of the loaf with the beaten egg, then sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture. (2 minutes)

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. (40-45 minutes)

Cool: Carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. (1 hour)