Birthday Cake Babka
A show-stopping Birthday Cake Babka featuring a soft, buttery dough, a rich cream cheese and sprinkle filling, and a decadent crumb topping. Perfect for celebrations or a festive brunch!
- Prep Time: 45
- Cook Time: 35
- Total Time: 180
- Yield: 3 loaves
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 tbsp dry active yeast
1/3 cup + 1/2 tsp sugar
1/2 cup lukewarm water
4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup milk
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 eggs
12 oz cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup rainbow jimmies (sprinkles)
1/8 tsp baking powder
pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Proof yeast in water and 1/2 tsp sugar for 10 mins.
2. Mix flour, remaining sugar, and vanilla in stand mixer.
3. Scald milk, cool slightly, then add to mixer with yeast and butter.
4. Add eggs and knead for 5-10 mins until shiny.
5. Rise in greased bowl for 1-2 hours.
6. Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, baking powder, and sprinkles.
7. Divide dough into 3, roll into rectangles, spread filling, and roll up.
8. Cut logs lengthwise and twist together.
9. Place in loaf pans, rise 30 mins, then bake at 350°F for 30-35 mins.
Notes
Use jimmies (oblong sprinkles) instead of nonpareils to prevent color bleeding.
Don’t skip the milk scalding; it breaks down proteins for a softer crumb.
Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months!
Find it online: https://pinchofwarmthbakes.com/the-ultimate-birthday-cake-babka/