Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka is a visually stunning and irresistibly delicious bread featuring layers of rich, tender dough swirled with a sweet blueberry filling and creamy cream cheese. This decadent twist on traditional babka is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With its buttery texture and vibrant blueberry flavor, this homemade babka is a show-stopping treat that’s easier to make than it looks!
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
For the Blueberry Filling
- 1 cup (150 g) fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp milk
Optional Glaze
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1-2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Add the warm milk, softened butter, and eggs. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes, or until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Blueberry Filling
- In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Babka
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 12×16 inches.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
- Spread the cooled blueberry filling on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Starting from one long side, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the edges to seal.
Step 5: Shape the Babka
- Slice the log in half lengthwise to expose the layers. Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up. Place the twisted dough into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Cover the pan with a damp cloth and let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 6: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the babka with the egg wash.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the babka is cooked through.
Step 7: Optional Glaze
- While the babka cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled babka for added sweetness.
Notes
- Storage: Store babka in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Customization: Add a handful of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
The soft, enriched dough pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese and sweet blueberry filling, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The braided shape ensures even distribution of the filling, while the optional glaze adds a touch of sweetness.
Conclusion
Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka is a delightful bread that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or as a weekend baking project, this babka will impress with its rich flavor and tender texture. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of this homemade masterpiece!
