If you’re searching for a stunning centerpiece for your holiday brunch or dessert table, look no further than this delightful Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling. Bursting with ribbons of tangy raspberry and creamy, sweet cheese tucked inside pillowy, buttery bread, it’s a festive swirl of flavors and color all in one show-stopping treat. This recipe creates more than just a beautiful bake; it brings warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of magic to any Christmas gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to yeasted dough, the process is as fun as the end result is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to holiday magic! Each component in the Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling enhances its flavor, texture, and gorgeous holiday look. Let’s break down why every item matters and a little tip for best results.
- All-purpose flour: This is the foundation, giving your dough its fluffy structure. Spoon and level for the most accurate measure!
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough without overshadowing the filling’s flavor.
- Active dry yeast: The magic behind those pillowy layers; make sure it’s fresh for a perfect rise.
- Salt: A pinch brings out the flavor in both the dough and the filling.
- Whole milk: Adds richness and softness to the bread—let it come to room temperature before using.
- Unsalted butter: For a tender, flavorful crumb; melt gently and don’t overheat it.
- Eggs: Provide structure and a lovely golden color to the finished ring.
- Cream cheese: The filling’s star; use full-fat for the creamiest result and let it soften on the counter.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling and makes a perfectly smooth glaze.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth both in the filling and glaze; use real vanilla if you can.
- Raspberry preserves or jam: Brings tang and color; stir well and choose seedless for a silky effect.
- Fresh or frozen raspberries (optional): A juicy burst of fruitiness in every slice; don’t skip if you love fresh berries.
- Sprinkles, sliced almonds, or crushed freeze-dried raspberries: For a festive finish; have fun mixing and matching your favorite toppings.
How to Make Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling
Step 1: Make the Dough
Begin by combining 2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. In a small saucepan, gently heat the milk and butter until they’re just warm—don’t let it get too hot or it may harm the yeast. Pour the milk mixture and eggs into the dry ingredients. Beat everything together until it’s smooth, then stir in the remaining flour until a soft dough starts to form. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 5–7 minutes, adding just enough flour to keep it from sticking to your hands. Your dough should be smooth, slightly tacky, and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about an hour, or until doubled in size. Watching this dough puff up is a little holiday magic in itself!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, turn your attention to the creamy, dreamy filling. In a small bowl, use a spoon or mixer to blend the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. Set aside your raspberry preserves and, if desired, a handful of fresh or frozen raspberries for a pop of color and flavor. This step is where you can sample a little taste—consider it quality control!
Step 3: Shape the Tea Ring
Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down gently to release air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a 10×16-inch rectangle. Using a spatula, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly, leaving about a half-inch border to prevent leaks. Spoon the raspberry preserves generously over the cream cheese, and dot with those beautiful fresh raspberries if using. Starting at one long edge, roll the dough up tightly into a log—take your time to keep it even. Carefully transfer it, seam-side down, to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape it into a ring and pinch the ends to seal. Using kitchen scissors, make cuts about an inch apart, slicing two-thirds of the way through. Gently twist each segment to the side to show off the pretty swirls of filling.
Step 4: Let It Rise Again
Once shaped, loosely cover your ring and let it rise again for 30–45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough looks puffy and springs back slightly when touched. This second rise helps the bread bake up light and airy, making every bite of your Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling utterly irresistible.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the ring for 25–30 minutes until it’s golden brown and fragrant. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil for the last ten minutes. Let it cool just slightly—enough so the glaze won’t melt straight off, but it’s still deliciously warm and inviting.
Step 6: Glaze and Serve
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable. Drizzle the glaze generously over your warm tea ring, allowing it to run into the swirls and crevices. Sprinkle with your choice of festive toppings—think classic rainbow sprinkles, sliced almonds for crunch, or crushed freeze-dried raspberries for color. Admire your creation, then slice and serve while it’s still just a little warm.
How to Serve Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling
Garnishes
The right garnish turns a beautiful bake into a dazzling one! Try a shower of powdered sugar for a snowy touch, or drizzle extra glaze over the top for shine. For crunch and elegance, add sliced almonds, or sprinkle over some festive holiday sprinkles for that playful vibe. If you’re after a pop of vibrant color, a dusting of crushed freeze-dried raspberries looks gorgeous—and echoes the raspberry filling inside.
Side Dishes
This tea ring pairs perfectly with so many holiday favorites. Serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a citrusy winter compote for brightness. For a brunch spread, add scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a platter of cheeses. A steaming pot of spiced Christmas tea or rich hot cocoa will make your Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling even cozier on a chilly morning!
Creative Ways to Present
Let your creativity shine when it’s time to present your masterpiece. Place the ring on a cake stand and nestle a few sprigs of holly or rosemary in the center for a festive look. Or arrange extra fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar around the base for added wow-factor. For gifting, slice into individual portions and wrap in wax paper with a ribbon—your friends will love this edible holiday surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling tightly wrapped in foil or wax paper at room temperature for up to two days. For any longer, pop the wrapped slices into the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors mellow a bit overnight, making it just as delightful with your morning coffee the next day.
Freezing
Freeze the unglazed tea ring for longer storage. Simply wrap it well in two layers of plastic wrap and a layer of foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and glazing fresh to bring back that just-baked magic.
Reheating
To reheat, pop slices in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds. If you froze the whole ring, let it thaw and then warm gently in the oven. Add a fresh drizzle of glaze after reheating for a bakery-fresh taste and look.
FAQs
Can I make the Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling the night before?
Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the ring, cover it, and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature to finish rising before baking as directed. This is a lifesaver for busy holiday mornings.
What if I don’t have raspberry preserves?
No worries! You can substitute with strawberry, blackberry, or even cherry preserves for a different flavor twist. Homemade or high-quality store-bought jams work best for a rich, fruity filling.
Do I have to use fresh raspberries in the filling?
Not at all! The fresh or frozen raspberries are optional, but they do add extra tartness and pretty bursts of color. If you’re using frozen berries, don’t thaw them—just scatter straight from the freezer.
Can I glaze the tea ring in advance?
It’s best to glaze shortly before serving to keep it looking fresh and glossy. If you must prep ahead, you can glaze up to a few hours in advance, but save sprinkles or toppings for just before serving so they stay crisp and vibrant.
Is it possible to make a smaller tea ring?
Yes! You can halve the recipe and follow the same shaping and baking instructions for a petite version. It’s a lovely option for more intimate gatherings or as part of a dessert buffet.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience the joy (and those gorgeous layers!) of this Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling. It’s a labor of love that rewards you with not just a spectacular treat, but memories made in the kitchen with family and friends. Give it a try this holiday season—and don’t be surprised when it becomes a tradition all its own!
Print
Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
- Yield: 10–12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, European-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of Christmas with this delightful Christmas Tea Ring filled with a luscious raspberry cream cheese filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy treat at home.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
For the Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raspberry preserves or jam
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (optional)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles, sliced almonds, or crushed freeze-dried raspberries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of the flour with sugar, yeast, and salt. In a small saucepan, heat milk and butter until warm. Add warm milk mixture and eggs to the flour mixture. Beat until smooth. Stir in remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled (about 1 hour).
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside raspberry preserves and optional fresh raspberries.
- Shape the Tea Ring: Punch down dough and roll out into a 10×16-inch rectangle. Spread cream cheese mixture over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Spoon raspberry preserves over the cream cheese and dot with fresh raspberries if using. Roll up tightly from the long side to form a log. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Shape into a ring and pinch ends together. Use kitchen scissors to make cuts 1 inch apart, about 2/3 of the way through the ring. Gently twist each slice slightly to expose filling. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool slightly.
- Glaze and Serve: Mix glaze ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over warm (not hot) tea ring and garnish with festive toppings if desired.
Notes
- You can use store-bought jam and cream cheese to save time.
- Freeze before glazing for easy holiday prep.
- Best served slightly warm, but also delicious at room temperature.
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