Delectable Polish Cream Cheese Coffee Cake: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Polish Cream Cheese Coffee Cake, or *Babka z Serem*, is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the richness of cream cheese with the comforting flavors of a classic coffee cake. This recipe offers a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you create a truly memorable dessert. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe is designed to be approachable and rewarding. Prepare to indulge in a slice of heaven that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Get ready to embark on a delicious baking adventure!

## What Makes Polish Cream Cheese Coffee Cake Special?

Unlike many coffee cakes that rely solely on a buttery crumb topping, Polish Cream Cheese Coffee Cake boasts a creamy, slightly tangy filling that elevates it to a whole new level. The combination of a tender, enriched dough and a luscious cream cheese layer creates a symphony of textures and flavors that’s simply irresistible. This cake is not overly sweet, allowing the delicate flavors of the cheese and vanilla to shine through. It’s a sophisticated yet comforting dessert that’s sure to impress.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. Precise measurements are crucial for baking success, so make sure to have a kitchen scale or measuring cups and spoons handy.

### For the Dough:

* **All-Purpose Flour:** 3 cups (375g), plus more for dusting
* **Granulated Sugar:** 1/2 cup (100g)
* **Instant Yeast:** 2 1/4 teaspoons (7g) – also labeled as rapid-rise yeast
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon (3g)
* **Milk:** 1/2 cup (120ml), lukewarm (about 110-115°F or 43-46°C)
* **Eggs:** 2 large
* **Egg Yolk:** 1 large
* **Unsalted Butter:** 6 tablespoons (85g), softened
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon (5ml)
* **Lemon Zest:** 1 teaspoon (from about 1/2 lemon, optional, but adds a lovely brightness)

### For the Cream Cheese Filling:

* **Cream Cheese:** 16 ounces (450g), softened (full fat recommended)
* **Granulated Sugar:** 3/4 cup (150g)
* **Eggs:** 2 large
* **Egg Yolk:** 1 large
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon (5ml)
* **Lemon Zest:** 1 teaspoon (from about 1/2 lemon, optional)
* **Cornstarch:** 2 tablespoons (16g) – helps stabilize the filling

### Optional Topping:

* **Streusel Topping:** (See separate recipe below) – provides a delightful textural contrast
* **Powdered Sugar:** For dusting (optional)

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Stand Mixer:** With a dough hook attachment (highly recommended, but you can knead by hand)
* **Large Mixing Bowl:** For hand kneading (if not using a stand mixer)
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons**
* **Kitchen Scale:** For precise measurements (optional, but recommended)
* **9-inch Springform Pan:** Essential for easy removal of the cake
* **Parchment Paper:** To line the bottom of the pan
* **Small Bowls:** For separating eggs and measuring ingredients
* **Whisk:** For the cream cheese filling
* **Rubber Spatula:** For folding and scraping bowls
* **Plastic Wrap:** For proofing the dough
* **Clean Kitchen Towel:** For covering the dough

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s get baking! Follow these detailed instructions carefully for the best results.

### Part 1: Making the Dough

1. **Activate the Yeast:** In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm milk and 1 teaspoon of the granulated sugar. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the milk mixture and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This step ensures that your yeast is active and will properly leaven the dough.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In the bowl of your stand mixer (or in a large mixing bowl if kneading by hand), combine the flour, remaining granulated sugar, and salt. Whisk to combine.
3. **Add Wet Ingredients:** Add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) to the dry ingredients. If using a stand mixer, attach the dough hook. If kneading by hand, make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredients into the well.
4. **Knead the Dough:**
* **Stand Mixer:** Knead on low speed for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Gradually add the softened butter, a tablespoon at a time, kneading until each addition is fully incorporated. The dough will be slightly sticky, but it should pull away from the sides of the bowl.
* **Hand Kneading:** Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 10-15 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. As with the stand mixer method, gradually add the softened butter, kneading until each addition is fully incorporated. This process may take a little longer by hand.
5. **First Proof:** Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Turn the dough to coat it with oil. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is a crucial step for developing the flavor and texture of the dough.

### Part 2: Making the Cream Cheese Filling

1. **Cream Together Cream Cheese and Sugar:** In a large bowl, using an electric mixer or a whisk, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps.
2. **Add Eggs and Egg Yolk:** Add the eggs and egg yolk, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can incorporate too much air into the filling and cause it to puff up and then collapse during baking.
3. **Add Vanilla and Lemon Zest:** Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using).
4. **Incorporate Cornstarch:** Gently whisk in the cornstarch until it is fully incorporated. This will help to stabilize the filling and prevent it from becoming too runny.

### Part 3: Assembling and Baking the Cake

1. **Prepare the Pan:** Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan. Alternatively, grease the pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. This will ensure that the cake releases easily after baking.
2. **Punch Down the Dough:** Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air.
3. **Divide the Dough:** Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one half of the dough into a circle that is slightly larger than the base of the springform pan.
4. **Place Dough in Pan:** Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared springform pan. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan, creating a crust.
5. **Pour in Cream Cheese Filling:** Pour the prepared cream cheese filling evenly over the dough in the pan.
6. **Roll Out the Remaining Dough:** Roll out the remaining half of the dough into a circle that is approximately the same size as the pan. This will be the top layer of the cake.
7. **Place Top Layer of Dough:** Carefully place the rolled-out dough over the cream cheese filling. Gently press the edges of the top layer of dough to seal it with the bottom layer of dough. You can crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
8. **Optional Streusel Topping:** If using a streusel topping (recipe below), sprinkle it evenly over the top of the cake. The streusel adds a delightful crunch and sweetness.
9. **Second Proof (Optional):** For a slightly taller and lighter cake, you can let the assembled cake rise for another 30 minutes in a warm place. This step is optional, but it can enhance the final texture.
10. **Bake the Cake:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cream cheese filling is set. To prevent the top from browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
11. **Cooling Process:** Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully release the sides of the springform pan and transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to prevent the cake from cracking.
12. **Dust with Powdered Sugar (Optional):** Once the cake is completely cooled, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. You can also drizzle it with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice.

### Streusel Topping Recipe (Optional)

A streusel topping adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the Polish Cream Cheese Coffee Cake. Here’s a simple recipe:

* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1/2 cup (65g)
* **Granulated Sugar:** 1/4 cup (50g)
* **Brown Sugar:** 1/4 cup (50g), packed
* **Cold Unsalted Butter:** 1/4 cup (57g), cut into small cubes
* **Ground Cinnamon:** 1/2 teaspoon (optional, but adds a warm spice)

**Instructions:**

1. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon (if using).
2. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top of the assembled cake before baking.

## Tips for Baking Success

* **Use Softened Ingredients:** Ensure that your butter and cream cheese are properly softened before using them. This will make it easier to cream them together and create a smooth and creamy filling.
* **Don’t Overmix the Cream Cheese Filling:** Overmixing the cream cheese filling can incorporate too much air, which can cause it to puff up and then collapse during baking. Mix until just combined.
* **Properly Proof the Dough:** Give the dough enough time to rise in a warm place. This will allow the yeast to develop its flavor and create a light and airy texture.
* **Use a Springform Pan:** A springform pan is essential for easily removing the cake without damaging it.
* **Prevent Over-Browning:** If the top of the cake starts to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
* **Cool Completely:** Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. This will prevent it from crumbling.
* **Adjust Sweetness to Taste:** Adjust the amount of sugar in the filling and topping to your preference.
* **Add Other Flavors:** Experiment with other flavors, such as almond extract, orange zest, or cardamom, to customize the cake to your liking.

## Serving Suggestions

Polish Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to enhance the experience:

* **Coffee or Tea:** Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a classic pairing.
* **Fresh Fruit:** Garnish with fresh berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a touch of color and freshness.
* **Whipped Cream:** Top with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
* **Vanilla Ice Cream:** Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
* **Brunch Spread:** Include it as part of a brunch spread with other sweet and savory dishes.

## Storage Instructions

* **Room Temperature:** Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
* **Refrigerator:** For longer storage, store the cake in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
* **Freezer:** You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

## Variations and Substitutions

* **Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make a gluten-free version of this cake. Be sure to use a blend that is designed for baking and contains xanthan gum.
* **Dairy-Free:** Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and plant-based milk and butter to make a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different.
* **Different Flavors:** Experiment with different extracts, such as almond extract or orange extract, to add a unique flavor to the filling.
* **Add Fruit:** Add chopped fruit, such as apples or pears, to the filling for added texture and flavor.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Sprinkle chocolate chips over the filling before adding the top layer of dough for a chocolatey twist.

## Conclusion

Polish Cream Cheese Coffee Cake is a truly special dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy filling, tender dough, and optional streusel topping, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress. Follow this detailed recipe and enjoy the process of creating a delicious and memorable cake. Happy baking!