Cheese Babka Recipe

Cheese Babka is a mouthwatering twist on the traditional Babka, a sweet Eastern European pastry.

This delightful treat combines the rich, buttery layers of Babka with a delectable cream cheese filling, making it a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

We’ll guide you through the steps to create your own Cheese Babka from scratch.

Ingredients

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup warm milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp sal

For the Cheese Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Syrup

• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

Preparing the Dough

In a small bowl, combine warm milk, 1/4 cup sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, eggs, softened butter, and vanilla extract.

Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. You can use a stand mixer or do it by hand. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.

Making the Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Assembling the Babka

Roll out the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.

Spread the cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a border around the edges.

Roll up the dough tightly, like a cinnamon roll.

Slice the roll in half lengthwise, revealing the layers of dough and cheese.

Twist the two halves together, creating a braided effect. Place the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan.

Baking and Finishing

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Let the Babka rest for about 20 minutes while the oven heats up.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the Babka is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Making the Syrup

While the Babka is baking, combine 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup of sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sugar dissolves.

Once the Babka is done, pour the syrup over it while it’s still warm.

The aroma of this freshly baked Cheese Babka is truly irresistible. This delightful pastry combines the soft, flaky layers of a classic Babka with the richness of cream cheese filling, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet ending to a meal, Cheese Babka is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Nutrition Facts (per slice)

These nutrition facts are based on a typical serving size for a Cheese Babka. Keep in mind that actual values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe.

10 Simple Cheese Babka Recipes

“Indulge in the heavenly flavors of Cheese Babka, a delectable pastry marrying rich, buttery dough with a luscious cream cheese filling. A perfect balance of sweet and savory in every delightful slice.

1. Chocolate Swirl Cheese Babka

Elevate your Cheese Babka with a layer of chocolate goodness. Simply add cocoa powder and chocolate chips to the cream cheese filling for a delightful twist.

2. Fruit and Cheese Filled Babka

Introduce a fruity twist by spreading a layer of fruit preserves or fresh fruit pieces along with the cream cheese filling for a sweet and tangy Babka.

3. Nutella-Stuffed Cheese Babka

For Nutella lovers, spread a generous layer of Nutella over the dough before adding the cream cheese filling for a hazelnut-chocolate delight.

4. Savory Cheese Babka

Experiment with a savory twist by substituting the sugar with herbs, spices, and shredded cheese for a unique, cheesy, and savory experience.

5. Blueberry and Lemon Zest Cheese Babka

Add a burst of freshness by incorporating blueberries and lemon zest into your cream cheese filling, creating a zesty, sweet, and tangy Babka.

6. Cinnamon Apple Cheese Babka

Combine the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of apples with the cream cheese, resulting in a comforting, fruity, and cheesy Babka.

7. Pumpkin Spice Cheese Babka

Embrace the fall season by mixing pumpkin puree and warming spices into your cream cheese filling, offering a delightful pumpkin spice treat.

8. Peanut Butter and Banana Cheese Babka

For a nutty and fruity experience, spread peanut butter and banana slices over the dough before adding the cream cheese filling for a rich and creamy delight.

9. Almond and Raspberry Cheese Babka

Incorporate almond paste and fresh raspberries to your cream cheese filling, creating a nutty, sweet, and slightly tart Babka.

10. Honey and Walnut Cheese Babka

Drizzle honey and sprinkle crushed walnuts over the cream cheese filling for a harmonious blend of sweet, nutty, and cheesy flavors in your Babka.

Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations to create a Cheese Babka that suits your taste preferences and occasions.