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Babka, a traditional Eastern European pastry, has captured the hearts and taste buds of bakers and dessert lovers around the world. Known for its rich, buttery dough and intricate twisted shape, babka is often filled with sweet ingredients that elevate its flavor profile. While traditional babka recipes typically feature chocolate or cinnamon fillings, this article introduces a delightful twist: Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka. The luscious combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet blueberries creates a harmonious balance of flavors, making it a perfect treat for brunch, dessert, or any special occasion. With its inviting aroma and beautiful presentation, this babka is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

Discover the joy of baking with this homemade Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka recipe! This delectable twist on a classic Eastern European pastry combines rich cream cheese and fresh blueberries, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for brunch or dessert, follow our easy step-by-step guide to create your own stunning loaf at home. Impress your friends and family with this beautiful, tasty treat! #Babka #Baking #Dessert #BlueberryBabka #HomemadeDelight
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Ingredients
  

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast

1/2 tsp salt

1 cup whole milk, warmed

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)

1/4 cup powdered sugar

Zest of 1 lemon

1 tsp lemon juice

For the glaze:

1/2 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tbsp milk

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.

    Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, or until it is smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

      Make the filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, blueberries, powdered sugar, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined and creamy.

        Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle (about 12x18 inches). Spread the blueberry cream cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

          Shape the babka: Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Gently pinch the seams to seal. Cut the log in half lengthwise to expose the filling. Twist the two halves together, creating a braid.

            Arrange in pan: Place the twisted dough into a greased loaf pan (9x5 inches), folding it as necessary to fit. Cover the pan with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffed.

              Bake the babka: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the babka in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted.

                Prepare the glaze: While the babka is cooling, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as needed.

                  Glaze the babka: Once the babka has cooled for about 10-15 minutes, drizzle the glaze over the top before slicing and serving.

                    Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 10 slices