Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread

There’s something magical about baking, especially when it comes to making Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread. I remember the first time I tried my hand at this delightful loaf. The aroma wafting through the kitchen was irresistible, and the vibrant colors of the raspberries mixed with the creamy filling made my heart skip a beat. This bread isn’t just food; it’s an experience, a beautiful centerpiece for any table, and a delightful treat for anyone fortunate enough to have a slice. Whether it’s a cozy brunch with friends or a festive gathering, this braided bread surely steals the show. Each layer is a testament to the love and care you put into baking, and trust me, when you serve this, you’ll be showered with compliments!

Shopping List for Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread

When it comes to making Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread, the ingredients play a pivotal role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each ingredient serves a purpose, contributing to the overall experience of this delightful bread.

• 5 cups warm water: This is essential for activating the yeast, providing the moisture needed for the dough to rise.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is key, and this helps feed the yeast while also lending a touch of sweetness to the bread.
• 4 tbsp instant yeast: The leavening agent that makes the bread rise, giving it that fluffy texture everyone loves.
• 12 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure. You can even mix in some whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
• 2 tbsp salt: Enhances the flavor and controls yeast activity to ensure proper rising.
• 4 tbsp butter: Softened butter adds richness and flavor, making the bread tender.
• 1 large egg white: Used for glazing the bread before baking, giving it a beautiful shine.
• Turbinado sugar: Optional, but it adds a lovely crunch to the top of the bread.
• 8 oz cream cheese: The star filling that adds creaminess and a delightful tang.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: This adds warmth and depth to the filling.
• Raspberry jam: A fruity addition that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Used for the glaze to add sweetness.
• 2-3 tbsp milk or cream: To achieve the right consistency for the glaze.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: A second round of flavoring for the glaze.
• Pinch of salt: Optional, but it helps balance the sweetness.

Putting Together Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread

Making Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread is a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Let’s dive into the steps that will lead you to the perfect loaf.

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. It should feel warm to the touch, not hot. Add 2 cups of flour and mix until combined.
2. Continue Mixing: Add salt, 4 cups of flour, and butter. Mix well until the dough starts to form. You want a smooth consistency that pulls away from the bowl.
3. Incorporate Remaining Flour: Add the remaining flour gradually, mixing until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl, forming a ball.
4. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 4 equal portions. This helps manage the dough and makes the braiding easier.
6. Roll Out the Portions: Take one portion and roll it into a tall rectangle, about a quarter inch thick. Spread one-fourth of the cream mixture down the center column, and then spoon a layer of raspberry jam on top.
7. Cut the Strips: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut 1-inch horizontal strips along each side of the rectangle without cutting into the filling. You’ll create flaps that will fold over the filling.
8. Braid the Dough: Starting at the top, alternate folding strips from each side across the center to create a braid. It should look beautiful and inviting.
9. Repeat the Process: Continue with the remaining dough and filling, creating four braided loaves in total.
10. Rise and Bake: Place each braided loaf on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise until doubled in size. Brush with egg white and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
11. Baking: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown. The smell should fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
12. Cooling: Allow the bread to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before drizzling with the glaze. This cooling step is crucial to maintain the bread’s structure.
13. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Drizzle generously over the cooled bread and watch it gleam!

Tips for Success

To ensure your baking experience is enjoyable and successful, here are some essential tips for making Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread.

• Storage: Store any leftover bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for two to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the braided bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
• Pairing: This bread pairs excellently with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve it as part of a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with fillings. Cream cheese and mixed berries, chocolate and hazelnuts, or even lemon curd can be delightful alternatives.
• Check for Doneness: When baking, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should be around 190 degrees for perfectly baked bread.
• Don’t Rush the Rising: Patience is key. Allow the dough to rise properly; this enhances the texture and flavor of your bread.

Perfect Matches for Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread

Serving Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread can be a delightful experience, especially when you consider what to pair with it. Here are some suggestions:

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi makes for a refreshing side that complements the sweetness of the bread.
• Creamy Yogurt: Serve with a dollop of vanilla yogurt for a creamy contrast that works beautifully with the bread’s texture.
• Warm Beverages: Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, enhancing your brunch experience.
• Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds a savory touch. Consider including a tangy goat cheese to balance the sweetness of the bread.
• Occasions: This bread is perfect for brunches, holiday gatherings, or even as a sweet treat during afternoon tea. It brings a sense of celebration to any occasion!
• Seasonal Serving: In the spring, serve it alongside light salads or during holiday festivities for a sweet touch to your table.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread is a labor of love that results in an incredibly satisfying and visually stunning loaf. Each slice is an invitation to enjoy a moment of sweetness, making it a cherished recipe in any kitchen. I encourage you to try making this delightful bread yourself; you won’t regret it. Your family and guests will applaud your efforts, and you’ll create beautiful memories in the process!

Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread

The ultimate comfort food, Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread combines rich cream cheese and sweet raspberry jam in a beautifully braided loaf. It’s flaky, tender, and perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack. Treat yourself tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Desserts

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 5 cups warm water
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 4 tbsp instant yeast
• 12 cups all-purpose flour can use part whole wheat flour
• 2 tbsp salt
• 4 tbsp butter softened
• 1 large egg white lightly whisked
• turbinado sugar optional, for sprinkling
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• raspberry jam or fruit jam of your choice
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk or cream
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch of salt optional, to balance sweetness

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. It should feel warm to the touch, not hot. Add 2 cups of flour and mix until combined.
2. Continue Mixing: Add salt, 4 cups of flour, and butter. Mix well until the dough starts to form. You want a smooth consistency that pulls away from the bowl.
3. Incorporate Remaining Flour: Add the remaining flour gradually, mixing until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl, forming a ball.
4. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Shape the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 4 equal portions. This helps manage the dough and makes the braiding easier.
6. Roll Out the Portions: Take one portion and roll it into a tall rectangle, about a quarter inch thick. Spread one-fourth of the cream mixture down the center column, and then spoon a layer of raspberry jam on top.
7. Cut the Strips: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut 1-inch horizontal strips along each side of the rectangle without cutting into the filling. You’ll create flaps that will fold over the filling.
8. Braid the Dough: Starting at the top, alternate folding strips from each side across the center to create a braid. It should look beautiful and inviting.
9. Repeat the Process: Continue with the remaining dough and filling, creating four braided loaves in total.
10. Rise and Bake: Place each braided loaf on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise until doubled in size. Brush with egg white and sprinkle with turbinado sugar if desired.
11. Baking: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown. The smell should fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
12. Cooling: Allow the bread to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before drizzling with the glaze. This cooling step is crucial to maintain the bread’s structure.
13. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Drizzle generously over the cooled bread and watch it gleam!

Notes

To ensure your baking experience is enjoyable and successful, here are some essential tips for making Raspberry Cream Cheese Braided Bread:

• Storage: Store any leftover bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for two to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the braided bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
• Pairing: This bread pairs excellently with a cup of coffee or tea. Serve it as part of a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with fillings. Cream cheese and mixed berries, chocolate and hazelnuts, or even lemon curd can be delightful alternatives.
• Check for Doneness: When baking, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should be around 190 degrees for perfectly baked bread.
• Don’t Rush the Rising: Patience is key. Allow the dough to rise properly; this enhances the texture and flavor of your bread.

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