Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Warm the milk and water until lukewarm (about 110°F). Sprinkle the yeast and a pinch of sugar over the warm water and let it bloom for 5 minutes, until foamy.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well and add the eggs, vanilla, and yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
- Add the softened butter in pieces and knead (by hand or with a stand mixer) for about 8 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
Filling and Shaping
- Meanwhile, make the filling: beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth and spreadable.
- Punch down the risen dough on a floured surface. Divide into two equal pieces and roll each into a long rope about 18 inches long.
- Spread the cream cheese filling down the center of one rope, leaving 1 inch at the ends. Place the second rope on top and pinch the edges to seal. Braid the ropes gently, then curve into a circle, pinching the ends together and tucking slightly to form a ring.
Baking
- Transfer the ring to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush the top lightly with beaten egg for shine. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.
Glazing
- While the cake cools slightly, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk to make a glaze.
- Drizzle over the warm ring and sprinkle the purple, green, and gold sugars in bands.
- If you are using a baby, hide it under the cake or insert it after baking into the bottom.
Notes
For a savory twist, swap the cream cheese filling for herbed goat cheese and add chopped green onions.
