Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a stunning dessert that bursts with rich flavors and looks like it belongs in an artisanal bakery, this Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe is your new best friend. It’s an irresistible braided bread filled with a luxurious mascarpone cheese filling that delivers a delicate sweetness enhanced by hints of vanilla and lemon zest. The result is an unbelievably soft, tender crumb enclosed in a golden crust with a swirl of creamy filling that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Perfect for brunch, special occasions, or an indulgent weekend treat, this babka brings a fresh twist to traditional favorites and will quickly become a cherished recipe to share with everyone you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe is in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, whether it’s the flour creating structure, the eggs adding richness, or that luscious mascarpone filling bringing irresistible creaminess. Gather these essentials to set yourself up for baking success.

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, it ensures a tender yet sturdy base for the babka’s soft texture.
• ¼ cup (50g) sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to balance the cheesy filling and enrich the dough.
• 1 packet (7g) instant yeast: Powers the dough to rise, creating that perfect light and airy crumb.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
• 2 large eggs: Bring moisture and richness, giving the dough a tender crumb and beautiful color.
• ½ cup (120ml) warm milk: Activates the yeast and helps create a soft, pliable dough.
• 60g unsalted butter, softened: Incorporated gradually for a melt-in-the-mouth texture and subtle richness.
• 250g mascarpone cheese: The star of the filling, offering a creamy, smooth texture with a mild tang.
• 1 large egg yolk: Added to the filling, it enriches the flavor and gives the filling a luscious finish.
• ¼ cup (50g) sugar: Sweetens the filling perfectly without overpowering the mascarpone’s delicate flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and aromatic notes that elevate the overall taste.
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional): Adds a fresh, bright twist that cuts through the richness beautifully.

How to Make Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast in a large bowl or your stand mixer. This dry mix is the base for the dough, and evenly distributing the yeast here ensures a consistent rise later on.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Warm Milk

Next, pour in the eggs and warm milk, stirring until the mixture turns into a shaggy dough. The warmth of the milk activates the yeast, while the eggs add moisture and richness to make the dough soft and pliable.

Step 3: Knead in Softened Butter

Gradually knead in the softened butter to your dough, taking about 8 to 10 minutes to achieve a smooth and elastic consistency. This step is key in creating the tender crumb and the subtle buttery flavor we love in babka.

Step 4: First Rise

Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which usually takes between 1½ to 2 hours. This patient rise develops flavor and the perfect airy texture.

Step 5: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling

While the dough rises, whisk together mascarpone, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth. Keeping this filling chilled ensures it stays firm and easy to spread later.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down your dough on a floured surface, then roll it into a 10 by 14-inch rectangle. This shape sets you up perfectly for folding in that creamy mascarpone filling.

Step 7: Spread Mascarpone Filling

Evenly spread the mascarpone mixture across the rolled dough, leaving a small border all around to keep the filling neatly contained during rolling.

Step 8: Roll Into a Log

Carefully roll the dough up tightly from the longer edge, creating a log that encases the luscious filling inside.

Step 9: Slice and Twist

Cut the log lengthwise down the center to reveal the filling swirl. Then twist the two strands around each other with the cut sides facing up — this creates babka’s signature beautiful pattern.

Step 10: Second Rise in Loaf Pan

Place your twisted dough in a greased loaf pan, cover loosely, and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes. This final step provides that inviting, puffy look and soft crumb.

Step 11: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and bake the babka for 40 to 45 minutes, until it’s a rich golden brown and cooked through. The scent filling your kitchen at this point is absolutely unbeatable!

Step 12: Cool and Serve

Allow your babka to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. For a charming finishing touch, dust it lightly with powdered sugar and enjoy it warm or at room temperature.

How to Serve Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling powdered sugar on your babka adds a delicate sweetness and a snowy finish that makes every slice look as gorgeous as it tastes. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also elevate its presentation while complementing the creamy filling.

Side Dishes

Pair this babka with a cup of rich coffee, a bold black tea, or a creamy latte for an indulgent breakfast or brunch pairing. For an extra touch of decadence, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a drizzle of honey.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe into thick slabs and arranging them in a rustic basket lined with a cloth for a welcoming buffet display. Alternatively, transform slices into an elegant bread pudding or French toast for a delightful brunch surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your babka fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the bread soft and the filling creamy without drying out.

Freezing

Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store sliced portions in freezer bags for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a toaster oven or a low-temperature oven for just a few minutes to revive that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth and softness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust less crisp.

FAQs

Can I substitute mascarpone cheese with cream cheese in this babka?

While cream cheese can work in a pinch, mascarpone has a higher fat content and a creamier texture that creates the signature smooth, rich filling in this recipe. Using mascarpone will give you the best authentic flavor and texture.

How long does it take for the dough to rise properly?

The dough usually takes about 1½ to 2 hours to double in size, depending on your room’s temperature. A warmer environment speeds up rising, while cooler spots require a little more patience.

Can I add chocolate or nuts to this Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe?

Absolutely! Adding a layer of finely chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate before rolling the dough can add extra texture and sweetness. Just be sure not to overfill so the dough can roll and twist easily.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Yes! This Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe is straightforward and forgiving, especially if you follow each step carefully. The techniques used here are excellent for anyone looking to expand their baking skill set with a rewarding result.

How do I know when the babka is fully baked?

The babka should be a deep golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch. You can insert a skewer in the center; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, but no raw dough.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making a Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe from scratch — it combines artistry and love in every twist and bite. Once you’ve tasted its tender crumb and creamy filling, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a family favorite and a centerpiece at any gathering. So grab your ingredients, embrace the process, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a little homemade magic!

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