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To fully appreciate the Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka, it's essential to understand its historical roots and cultural significance. Babka, a term derived from the Slavic word for “grandmother,” is a sweet yeast dough that has become an iconic pastry in Eastern European Jewish cuisine. Traditionally, this delightful bread was made with leftover dough and filled with various ingredients, including chocolate, cinnamon, and streusel.

Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka

Dive into the sweet world of baking with this Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka recipe! This delightful, braided bread pairs fluffy dough with a creamy blueberry filling, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. Whether you're an expert or a beginner, this easy-to-follow guide will help you create a stunning treat that will impress everyone. Experience the joy of making your own babka today! #Baking #Babka #Blueberry #SweetTreats #Homemade #BrunchIdeas #DessertRecipes
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Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast

1/2 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For the Glaze:

1/2 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prepare the Dough:

    - In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast. In another bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.

      - Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

        - Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

          Make the Filling:

            - In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the blueberries. Set aside.

              Shape the Babka:

                - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

                  - Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick (approximately 16x12 inches).

                    - Spread the cream cheese and blueberry mixture evenly over the dough.

                      - Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Pinch the seams to seal, and slice the log in half lengthwise to expose the filling.

                        - Twist the two halves together, keeping the filling facing up, and place the twisted dough into the prepared loaf pan.

                          Second Rise:

                            - Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the babka rise for another 30-45 minutes, until it has risen above the edge of the pan.

                              Bake the Babka:

                                - Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If it browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

                                  Prepare the Glaze:

                                    - While the babka is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.

                                      Glaze and Serve:

                                        - Once the babka has cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the glaze over the bread before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Blueberry Cream Cheese Babka!

                                          Prep Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours | Servings: 10