Braided Coffee Cake Recipe: with Cream Cheese and Apricot
Elevate your morning or brunch table with this gorgeous Braided Coffee Cake Recipe, a twist of tender dough filled with rich cream cheese, fruity apricot jam, or fragrant cardamom-sugar nuts. Inspired by espresso shop classics and Scandinavian pastry braids, this homemade twisted coffee bread brings bakery-level flair straight to your kitchen.
Braided Coffee Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix to combine.
- Gradually stir in flour and salt to form a soft dough.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours, or until doubled.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll into a 12×16-inch rectangle.
- Spread your chosen filling (Cream Cheese Cherry, Apricot Jam, or Cardamom Nut) along the center third.
- Slice diagonal strips on the outer thirds and braid them over the filling.
- Carefully transfer the braid to a lined baking sheet.
- Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the top with egg wash.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before slicing.
Notes
-
This braided coffee cake is versatile—use any one of the suggested fillings:
▪ Cream Cheese Cherry – rich and creamy
▪ Apricot Jam – light and fruity
▪ Cardamom Nut – spiced and nutty - Be sure to let the dough rise until doubled for the best texture.
- For a neater braid, chill the dough slightly before slicing and folding.
- Allow the finished braid to cool completely before slicing to help the filling set.
- Can be made a day in advance and baked fresh for serving.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 4–5 days.
- Optional: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for extra sweetness and shine.
Why You’ll Love This Braided Coffee Cake Recipe
- Bakery-style aesthetic: Craft a stunning filled braided bread with interwoven dough and lattice-style filling.
- Sweet and Savoury filling options: From cream cheese coffee cake to apricot Danish braid, pick your favourite flavour.
- Soft, tender crumb: Delicate like a Danish pastry yet sturdier, perfect for dipping into your morning brew.
- Customizable holiday breakfast braid: Use cherry, almond, or raspberry preserves for festive variation.
Nutritional table (per slice, 12 slices)
| Nutrient | Without Filling | Cream Cheese Cherry | Apricot Jam | Cardamom Nut |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories (kcal) | ~150 | 260 | 240 | 250 |
| Total Fat (g) | ~5 | 10 | 8 | 12 |
| Saturated Fat (g) | ~3 | 5 | 4 | 3.5 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | ~22 | 38 | 42 | 36 |
| Sugars (g) | ~4 | 16 | 20 | 14 |
| Protein (g) | ~4 | 5 | 4 | 5 |
Note: Nutrition info may vary depending on ingredient brands, quantities, and the type of filling used.
Serving & Storage Tips (Braided Coffee Cake Recipe)
- Serve warm with coffee or tea, or slice thickly for dessert.
- Store at room temperature in an airtight bag for up to 2 days.
- Freeze slices wrapped individually for up to 3 months; thaw before glazing.
- Pro tip: Brush with egg wash before baking for a glossy sheen.
Conclusion:
This Braided Coffee Cake Recipe is a true showstopper: soft, rich, and endlessly customizable. Whether you crave cream cheese, apricot jam, or cardamom nut filling, each bite brings comforting bakery warmth to your table. It’s perfect for brunch, holiday mornings, or a sweet coffee break. If you’re a fan of classic cakes with a cinnamon streusel topping, be sure to explore our Amish Coffee Cake Recipe as well.
Try this recipe of braided coffee cake today and bring a touch of bakery charm to your table. Share your creation, tag us online, and stay tuned for more delicious recipes.
