Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
If you’re dreaming of a festive treat that will absolutely dazzle your holiday table and warm your home with intoxicating aromas, it’s time to meet the Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling. This gorgeous pastry is soft, pillowy, and swirled with ribbons of sweet-tart raspberry and luscious cream cheese, all nestled in a tender yeasted dough, then crowned with a simple vanilla icing and a shower of sprinkles. Every slice is pure Christmas magic, and it’s the kind of showstopper that brings loved ones running to the kitchen the moment it emerges from the oven. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just love baking for the holidays, you’ll fall in love with this unforgettable recipe for Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Though the finished ring looks spectacular, the ingredient list is pleasingly straightforward! Each element—flour, yeast, butter, sugar, and that all-important raspberry swirl—plays a special role in creating the perfect flavor, texture, and eye-catching appearance of this Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, lending structure and a tender crumb that stands up to the creamy, fruity filling.
- Active dry yeast: The magic ingredient for a fluffy, rising dough. Fresh yeast flavor is so worth it!
- Granulated sugar: Adds gentle sweetness to both the dough and the rich cream cheese layer.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and brings out the nuanced flavors in every bite.
- Whole milk: Creates a soft, rich dough—don’t skimp for skim!
- Water: Helps activate the yeast and hydrate the flour for a smooth, elastic dough.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and tenderizes the dough. Make sure it’s truly soft for easy mixing.
- Egg: Gives the dough lightness, a delicate texture, and that signature golden color.
- Cream cheese (softened): The star of the filling—silky, creamy, and decadent. Room temperature makes it easy to blend.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the cream cheese and icing with classic warmth and aroma.
- Raspberry preserves: For a bright burst of berry flavor and that ruby-red swirl. Use a good-quality preserve for the best result!
- Powdered sugar: Creates a dreamy, snowy icing that’s the finishing touch on your ring.
- Milk (for icing): Loosens the powdered sugar to that pourable, drizzly consistency.
- Holiday sprinkles (optional): Because nothing says festive like a scattering of cheerful, colorful sprinkles on top!
How to Make Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling
Step 1: Make and Rise the Dough
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, the active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. Next, gently heat the milk, water, and butter in a small saucepan until it’s very warm (not boiling, around 120 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit). Add the warm mixture and an egg to your dry ingredients, beating until you have a smooth, sticky batter. Gradually stir in the rest of the flour until a soft, manageable dough forms—it should feel slightly tacky but not stick to your hands. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, then knead for about 6 to 8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. The dough is ready when it springs back if pressed lightly. Pop it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. This is where the magic truly begins!
Step 2: Prepare the Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling
While the dough is rising, it’s the perfect time to whip up the creamy, dreamy filling. In a small bowl, blend softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and easily spreadable. Set aside your raspberry preserves so they’re ready to swirl—this is the part that adds color and fruity zing to your Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling.
Step 3: Shape and Fill the Dough
Once your dough has risen, give it a quick “punch down” to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface into a 16 by 9 inch rectangle. Spread the sweetened cream cheese over the entire surface in an even layer. Next, spoon dollops of raspberry preserves across the top, then use a butter knife or spatula to gently swirl it through the cream cheese. Starting from the long edge, roll up the dough snugly, jelly-roll style, and pinch the seam to seal in all that delicious filling. Carefully transfer your rolled dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet and form it into a ring, pinching the ends together.
Step 4: Slice and Twist for That Signature Look
With a sharp knife or scissors, cut slits around the ring, about two-thirds of the way through, at 1 1/2-inch intervals—each slice should go almost but not completely to the center. Gently twist and turn each section outward so the beautiful layers and swirls peek through. This gives your Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling its iconic festive appearance. Let the ring rise, loosely covered, for another 30 minutes; it will puff up beautifully one more time.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit while the ring has its final rise. Once ready, bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tea ring is golden brown on the outside and you can just smell the sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen. Let the ring cool slightly on the baking sheet so the filling can set before you move to icing—resist the urge to glaze immediately!
Step 6: Drizzle and Decorate
While the ring is still gently warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract into a glossy, pourable icing. Drizzle the icing over the Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling in generous swirls. If you want to amp up the festive spirit, sprinkle holiday sprinkles across the top while the icing is still tacky. That extra pop of color makes every slice look like a little gift!
How to Serve Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar is always classic, but for extra flair, drizzle on a bit more icing and sprinkle colorful holiday sprinkles or sugared cranberries over the top. A scattering of slivered almonds adds a delicious crunch and nutty hint that complements the flavors beautifully—a charming finishing touch for this special pastry.
Side Dishes
Pair slices of Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling with mugs of hot coffee, spiced tea, or even warm mulled cider for a cozy, indulgent breakfast. It also shines alongside a fresh fruit platter or a bowl of Greek yogurt if you’re serving it as part of a larger brunch spread. For dessert hour, add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a touch of decadence!
Creative Ways to Present
For extra festive impact, serve your tea ring on a cake stand bedecked with pine sprigs and berries. If you’re gifting, wrap slices in parchment and tie with baker’s twine for the sweetest edible gift. To really wow your guests, set the Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling out as a centerpiece and slice at the table so everyone can see the beautiful swirls inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, any leftover Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling can be wrapped tightly in plastic or transferred to an airtight container. Leave it at room temperature for up to one day, but for longer freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld and intensify overnight!
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! After baking and cooling (but before icing), wrap the whole ring or individual slices tightly in two layers of plastic wrap, then a layer of foil. You can freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then glaze just before serving for bakery-fresh results.
Reheating
To reheat the Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 300 degree Fahrenheit oven for 8 to 10 minutes. For a quick single serving, a few seconds in the microwave will also do the trick. Add icing and sprinkles after reheating for that just-baked taste!
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit preserve instead of raspberry?
Absolutely! Strawberry, cherry, or even apricot preserves all work beautifully. Each will offer a unique twist on the Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling, so feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer—can I knead by hand?
Definitely! The dough is very friendly for hand-kneading. Just turn it onto a floured surface and knead with the heels of your hands for the recommended 6 to 8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic—it’s a satisfying, old-fashioned ritual!
How can I make the tea ring ahead for a holiday morning?
Shape the tea ring the night before, cover well, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature and finish its second rise before baking as directed. This makes Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling perfect for stress-free entertaining!
Is there an egg-free version?
You can substitute the egg in the dough with a flax “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for an egg-free alternative, though the texture may be slightly different. The filling and icing are already egg-free!
Why is my dough not rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, the yeast may be old, or the liquid could have been too hot or too cold. Make sure your yeast is within its expiration date and your milk mixture is just warm to the touch. Proper rising is key for the light, fluffy texture in your Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something magical for your holiday table, give Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling a try. It’s beautiful, unbelievably delicious, and guaranteed to spark smiles and sweet memories with every slice. You’ll be passing down this recipe for years to come!
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Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours (including rise time)
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling. A festive pastry perfect for holiday breakfasts or desserts.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 large egg
Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raspberry preserves
Icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- holiday sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Dough Preparation: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Heat milk, water, and butter, then add to the flour mixture with the egg. Knead until smooth and elastic. Let rise for 1 hour.
- Filling: Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Assembly: Roll out dough, spread cream cheese mixture, add raspberry preserves, roll up, shape into a ring, and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Baking: Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until golden. Drizzle with icing and sprinkle with holiday sprinkles.
Notes
- You can substitute raspberry preserves with strawberry or cherry jam.
- The ring can be made ahead and rewarmed before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
