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Easter Cream Cheese Babka

A delightful twist on traditional sweet bread, this Easter Cream Cheese Babka is fluffy and rich, filled with creamy, tangy cheese and zesty lemon, perfect for any celebration or snack.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baking
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk, warmed Should be around 110°F (43°C)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 egg for egg wash
Filling Ingredients
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup lemon zest

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, mix the warm milk, sugar, and yeast; let it sit for 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the milk mixture, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Filling Preparation
  1. In another bowl, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until smooth.
Assembly
  1. Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the top.
  2. Roll the dough tightly from one end to the other, pinching the seams to seal.
  3. Cut the rolled dough in half lengthwise and twist the two halves together.
  4. Place in a greased loaf pan. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Baking
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush the top with egg wash.
  2. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Let cool before slicing.

Notes

Serve sliced and warm, with a dusting of powdered sugar or paired with coffee or tea. For storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to three days. Freezing is also an option for up to a month.