Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling

 This Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling is a festive and delicious treat that's perfect for holiday brunches or gatherings. With a soft, fluffy dough, tangy raspberry cream cheese filling, and a beautiful ring shape, it's as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

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Ingredients

For the Dough:

3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp)

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup milk

1/4 cup water

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

For the Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup raspberry jam or preserves

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Glaze (optional):

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 tbsp milk

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish (optional):

Fresh raspberries

Mint leaves

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.

2. In a separate bowl, heat the milk and water together in a microwave or saucepan until warm (about 110°F). Add the butter and stir until melted.

3. Add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients, followed by the eggs, and stir to combine.

4. Gradually add the remaining flour (about 1 cup) until the dough forms.

5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

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2. Make the Filling

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, raspberry jam, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

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3. Shape the Tea Ring

1. After the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about 12x16 inches.

2. Spread the raspberry cream cheese filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

3. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long edge.

4. Cut the dough log in half lengthwise, exposing the filling. Twist the two halves together to form a ring, pinching the ends to seal.

5. Place the ring on a parchment-lined baking sheet, forming a circle.

6. Cover with a cloth and let rise for about 30-45 minutes, or until puffed.

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4. Bake the Tea Ring

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Bake the tea ring for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

3. Allow the ring to cool for 10-15 minutes on a wire rack.

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5. Add the Glaze (Optional)

1. In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled tea ring.

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6. Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with fresh raspberries and mint leaves for a festive touch.

2. Slice and serve this beautiful, sweet treat at your holiday gathering!

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Serve

This Christmas Tea Ring with Raspberry Cream Cheese Filling is perfect for a holiday brunch o

r as a centerpiece for your festive table. The soft dough paired with the sweet, tangy filling and glaze makes it a delightful indulgence for all to enjoy!