If you adore rich, tender, and beautifully braided breads, then this Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. The silky smooth mascarpone filling nestled inside a soft, buttery dough creates an irresistible balance of creamy sweetness and airy crumb with every bite. Whether you’re craving a special breakfast treat or an impressive dessert for guests, this recipe delivers an elegant, homemade touch that feels both comforting and decadent.

Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating a luscious texture and harmonious flavor. From the sturdy all-purpose flour to the creamy mascarpone, each component is simple yet essential for that perfect babka you’ll be proud to bake.

3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and chewiness necessary for the dough to rise beautifully.
¼ cup (50g) sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the bread base without overpowering.
1 packet (7g) instant yeast: Ensures the dough rises, giving the babka its light, airy character.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
2 large eggs: Add richness and a tender crumb to the dough.
½ cup (120ml) warm milk: Helps activate the yeast and softens the dough.
60g unsalted butter, softened: Makes the dough silky and moist with a buttery flavor.
250g mascarpone cheese: The star of the filling, creamy and mild, creating a luscious contrast inside the babka.
1 large egg yolk: Contributes to the filling’s richness and binds the ingredients together.
¼ cup (50g) sugar: Sweetens the mascarpone filling beautifully.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the filling.
Zest of 1 lemon (optional): Brightens the flavor, providing a subtle citrus note.

How to Make Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

Start by combining your dry ingredients — flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast — in a large bowl or stand mixer. This ensures that everything is evenly distributed for a consistent rise. Then add the eggs and warm milk to the dry mix, stirring until it forms a shaggy dough; this initial texture signals that you’re ready to start kneading.

Step 2: Knead in Butter

Kneading is where the magic happens. Gradually add the softened butter to your dough, kneading until it becomes smooth and elastic. This process takes about 8 to 10 minutes, and though it may feel like a workout, it develops the gluten that gives babka its signature chewy softness.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover your dough and place it in a warm spot to rise. Patience here pays off — wait until it doubles in size, usually around 1½ to 2 hours. This rising time allows the yeast to work its wonders, creating a light and airy texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Mascarpone Filling

While the dough rises, whip together the mascarpone cheese, sugar, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth. Keep the filling chilled so it maintains a creamy consistency, perfect for spreading later.

Step 5: Shape the Babka

Once risen, punch down your dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 10 by 14-inch rectangle. Spread the mascarpone filling evenly, leaving a small border to keep it contained. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log — this rolling step layers the filling beautifully inside the dough.

Step 6: Twist and Proof

Slice the rolled log lengthwise, exposing the luscious filling inside. Twist the two strands together with the cut sides facing up — this is what gives babka its iconic look and texture. Place the twisted loaf into a greased loaf pan, cover loosely, and let it rise again for 30 to 45 minutes. This final proofing ensures a fluffy, tender crumb after baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake the babka for 40 to 45 minutes until it’s a gorgeous golden brown and cooked through. The scent wafting through your kitchen at this point is pure happiness.

Step 8: Cooling and Serving

Allow the babka to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. If desired, dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature, both ways offering that perfect silky mascarpone bite balanced with a soft, buttery bread.

How to Serve Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your babka by dusting it lightly with powdered sugar for a delicate sweetness and visual appeal. A scatter of toasted almonds or a drizzle of honey can also add interesting textures and layers of flavor without masking the mascarpone’s creamy goodness.

Side Dishes

This babka shines on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like berries or a simple dollop of whipped cream. For brunch, serve alongside a cup of coffee or tea to create a memorable, cozy experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the babka thickly and serve it on a rustic wooden board alongside jams or compotes for a beautiful spread. You can also cut smaller pieces to serve as elegant finger desserts at gatherings, impressing friends with the swirled filling exposed in every slice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover babka tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to three days at room temperature. The mascarpone filling keeps the bread moist, so it won’t dry out quickly.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the babka wrapped well in plastic and then foil to protect against freezer burn. It freezes beautifully and can be kept for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

Reheat babka slices in a warm oven at about 160°C (320°F) for 8-10 minutes or briefly in the microwave for a softer, freshly baked feel. This brings back the creamy warmth of the mascarpone filling and the tender bread texture.

FAQs

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone in this babka?

Yes, cream cheese can be substituted for mascarpone, but mascarpone offers a milder, silkier texture that’s more traditional in this recipe. If using cream cheese, try to pick a full-fat variety and perhaps add a touch of heavy cream to mimic mascarpone’s creaminess.

Is it okay to skip the lemon zest in the filling?

Absolutely. The lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness, but the filling will still be delicious without it. This recipe is quite flexible and lets the rich mascarpone flavor shine regardless.

How can I tell when the babka is fully baked?

A golden-brown top and a cooked-through center are good indicators. You can insert a skewer in the middle—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. Avoid opening the oven too often to keep the heat consistent.

Can this dough be made by hand, or is a stand mixer necessary?

You can knead the dough by hand if you prefer. It takes a bit more elbow grease but the results are just as wonderful. Use a clean surface and your hands to knead for about 10 to 12 minutes until smooth and elastic.

What’s the best way to slice babka for serving?

Use a sharp serrated knife to gently cut through the babka, preserving the swirl pattern of the filling. Slice about 1 to 1.5 inches thick for an ideal balance of bread and filling in each piece.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about creating a homemade treat that looks stunning and tastes unforgettable, and this Mascarpone Cheese Babka Recipe does exactly that. It’s a perfect bake to share with loved ones or to savor all on your own. Once you try this babka, its tender, creamy layers will become a beloved favorite in your baking rotation. So roll up your sleeves, get that mascarpone ready, and dive into this deliciously rewarding recipe!