Mascarpone Cranberry Babka: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Mascarpone cranberry babka is a delicious and unique bread that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of mascarpone cheese and cranberries. This bread is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat.

Ingredients

* 1 package active dry yeast * 1/2 cup warm water (110-115°F) * 1/4 cup sugar * 1 cup warm milk (110-115°F) * 2 large eggs * 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter * 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour * 1 teaspoon salt * 1 cup mascarpone cheese * 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries * 1/2 cup sugar * 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon * 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, dissolve the yeast in the warm water. Let stand for 5 minutes, until the yeast is foamy. 2. Add the sugar, milk, eggs, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until the ingredients are well combined. 3. Add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until the dough just comes together. 4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic. 5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size. 6. While the dough is rising, make the filling. In a medium bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, cranberries, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined. 7. Once the dough has doubled in size, punch it down and divide it in half. Roll out each half into a 12-inch circle. Spread the filling evenly over one of the circles. 8. Roll up the dough from one side to the other. Pinch the edges to seal. 9. Place the babka in a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until the babka has doubled in size. 10. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the babka for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown. 11. Let the babka cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips

* For a sweeter babka, add more sugar to the filling. * For a more tart babka, add more cranberries to the filling. * If you don't have mascarpone cheese, you can substitute cream cheese. * This babka can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.