Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka
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Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka is the ultimate treat for any occasion! Imagine a soft, brioche-like bread layered with swirls of creamy cheese and bursts of sweet, juicy blueberries. This delicious twist on traditional babka combines the tang of cream cheese with the sweet-tart flavor of blueberries, making each bite as unforgettable as it is indulgent. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or just because, this recipe will have everyone reaching for a slice!

Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

One weekend, I wanted to surprise my family with something special and unique, so I tried this Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka recipe. From the first slice, it became an instant favorite! My husband, who is a fan of both cheesecake and fruit-filled pastries, was in love, and now it’s a request at every family gathering. The kids always enjoy helping swirl the fillings, and there’s something so cozy and satisfying about sharing this homemade babka together on a slow morning.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

Why You’ll Love Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

Soft, Buttery Texture: The babka dough is rich, fluffy, and slightly sweet, with a texture that melts in your mouth.

Creamy and Fruity Filling: Swirled with a blend of blueberries and cream cheese, every slice is a perfect balance of flavors.

Beautifully Swirled Design: The marbled appearance is impressive yet simple to achieve, making it a lovely addition to your table.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy it fresh out of the oven, toasted with butter, or as an indulgent French toast!

Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

Ingredients Notes for Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise to perfection; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.

Blueberries: Fresh or frozen blueberries work well; just be sure to drain any excess juice if using frozen.

Cream Cheese: For a smooth, tangy filling that pairs beautifully with the blueberries.

Lemon Zest: Adds a hint of brightness and complements the blueberries.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

Recipe Steps

1. Prepare the Dough: Activate yeast in warm milk with a pinch of sugar, then combine with flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. Knead until smooth and let rise for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth. Separately, lightly mash the blueberries with a bit of sugar to release their juices.

3. Roll Out and Fill: Roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the dough, followed by the blueberries, leaving a small border.

4. Roll and Twist: Roll up the dough tightly from one end, then slice it in half lengthwise. Twist the two halves together with the cut sides facing up to show the filling.

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5. Bake: Place the twisted dough in a loaf pan, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

6. Optional Glaze: Brush the babka with a simple sugar syrup as soon as it comes out of the oven for added shine and moisture.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

Storage Options

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refrigerate: Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to a week.

Freeze: Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

Variations & Substitutions

Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped almonds or walnuts over the filling for a bit of crunch.

Berry Mix: Substitute half of the blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for a mixed berry twist.

Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Prepare the babka and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for best results.

Q: Can I use a different filling?

A: Absolutely! This dough works well with other fillings, like cinnamon sugar, chocolate, or even Nutella.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat babka?

A: For a warm, fresh taste, reheat slices in the oven for 5-10 minutes at 300°F (150°C) or toast lightly.

With its beautiful layers and deliciously comforting flavors, this Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka is a treat you’ll want to make again and again. Happy baking! 🍞💙

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Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

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Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Kitchen: Eastern European
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 10 slices

Ingredients
 

  • For the Dough:
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast about 2 1/4 teaspoons
  • 1/2 cup warm milk about 110°F or 43°C
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • For the Blueberry Filling:
  • 1 cup blueberry jam or fresh blueberries cooked with 1/4 cup sugar until thickened
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional
  • For the Cream Cheese Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Topping:
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons cold unsalted butter cubed

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough:
  • Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  • Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, and softened butter. Knead by hand or with a dough hook on a stand mixer for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
  • First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  • Prepare the Fillings:
  • Blueberry Filling: If using fresh blueberries, cook them with 1/4 cup sugar until thickened, then let cool. If using blueberry jam, simply set it aside. Stir in cinnamon if desired.
  • Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Assemble the Babka:
  • Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle (about 12x16 inches).
  • Spread the Fillings: Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over the dough, then spoon the blueberry filling over the top.
  • Roll and Cut: Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Slice the log lengthwise down the middle to expose the filling. Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up.
  • Second Rise: Place the twisted dough into a greased 9x5-inch loaf pan. Cover with a towel and let it rise for 30-45 minutes until slightly puffy.
  • Prepare the Topping:
  • Make the Streusel: In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and cold butter. Use a fork or your fingers to create a crumbly mixture. Sprinkle this streusel over the risen babka.
  • Bake the Babka:
  • Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the babka for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Cover with foil if it starts to brown too quickly.
  • Cool and Serve: Allow the babka to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

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