Raspberry Cheesecake Brioche

Raspberry Cheesecake Brioche is a rich, buttery yeast bread layered with creamy cheesecake filling and bursts of tart raspberries. The tender crumb of classic brioche contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling and vibrant fruit, creating a bakery-style treat that feels both indulgent and elegant. Perfect for brunch spreads, special breakfasts, or dessert, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a stunning centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bakery-Quality Texture – Enriched brioche dough creates a soft, airy crumb with delicate buttery flavor.
Creamy–Tart Flavor Balance – Smooth cheesecake filling pairs perfectly with bright raspberries.
Beautiful Presentation – Twisted or braided shaping reveals attractive layers once baked.
Versatile Serving Option – Works equally well for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Dough can be prepared in advance and baked fresh when needed.
Customizable Fillings – Easy to adapt with other berries, chocolate, or flavored cream cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Brioche Dough

4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and chew for enriched bread.
1/4 cup granulated sugar – Lightly sweetens and supports yeast activity.
1 teaspoon salt – Strengthens gluten and balances sweetness.
2 teaspoons instant yeast – Ensures reliable rise and fluffy texture.
1/2 cup whole milk, warmed – Activates yeast and enriches the dough.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness, tenderness, and classic brioche flavor.
3 large eggs, room temperature – Contribute structure, color, and softness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances aroma and sweetness.

For the Cheesecake Filling

8 ounces cream cheese, softened – Creates smooth, tangy richness.
1/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the filling.
1 large egg – Helps the cheesecake layer set during baking.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor.
1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries – Provides tart bursts of fruit contrast.

For the Topping

1/4 cup powdered sugar (optional) – Light finishing sweetness and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the brioche dough – Combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast, then mix in warmed milk, butter, eggs, and vanilla until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, then let rise in a greased bowl for 1–2 hours until doubled.

Make the cheesecake filling – Beat cream cheese and sugar until completely smooth, then mix in the egg and vanilla to create a creamy, spreadable filling.

Roll and fill the dough – Punch down risen dough and roll into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Spread cheesecake filling evenly, leaving a border, and scatter raspberries across the surface.

Shape the brioche – Roll into a tight log, slice lengthwise to expose layers, twist the halves together, and place in a greased pan. Let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Bake until golden – Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes until deeply golden and cooked through, tenting loosely with foil if browning too quickly.

Cool and finish – Rest briefly in the pan, transfer to a wire rack, and dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Soften Cream Cheese Fully – Prevents lumps and ensures silky filling texture.
Knead to Proper Gluten Development – Dough should be stretchy and smooth for best rise.
Use Frozen Berries Straight from Freezer – Limits excess moisture bleeding into filling.
Allow Complete Cooling Before Slicing – Helps cheesecake layer set cleanly.
Measure Flour Accurately – Too much flour leads to dense brioche.
Create Tight Twists – Improves visual layers and even baking.

Nutritional Information

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rising)
Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: About 2 hours
Servings: 12 slices (rich bakery-style portions)
Calories: ~280 per slice (estimated)

Perfect Pairings

Fresh Brewed Coffee or Espresso – Balances sweetness with gentle bitterness.
Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream – Adds airy richness for dessert service.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream – Enhances indulgence for special occasions.
Citrus Fruit Salad – Provides refreshing acidity alongside the rich brioche.

Ideal Occasions

Weekend Brunch Gatherings – Impressive centerpiece for shared meals.
Holiday Breakfast Tables – Festive, comforting, and visually striking.
Afternoon Tea or Coffee Breaks – Elegant yet satisfying sweet bread.
Celebratory Desserts – Perfect for birthdays or special family moments.

Storage & Serving Tips

Store Airtight at Room Temperature – Keeps fresh for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for Longer Shelf Life – Maintains quality for about 1 week.
Reheat Gently Before Serving – Restores softness and aroma.
Freeze Individual Portions – Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.

Creative Variations to Try

Blueberry or Strawberry Filling – Swap raspberries for different berry flavors.
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Twist – Add chips for extra indulgence.
Citrus Zest in Filling – Lemon or orange brightens overall flavor.
Whole Wheat Flour Blend – Replace part of the flour for added fiber.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Dense Brioche Texture – Dough likely under-kneaded or insufficiently risen.
Runny Cheesecake Layer – Bake slightly longer or ensure accurate oven temperature.
Overbrowned Top – Cover loosely with foil during final baking minutes.
Filling Leaking Out – Leave proper border and roll dough tightly.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe succeeds by combining the structure of enriched yeast dough with the creamy stability of baked cheesecake filling. Butter, eggs, and milk tenderize gluten to create brioche’s signature softness, while proper kneading builds enough strength to hold the layered filling. The raspberries introduce acidity that balances sweetness and richness, preventing the pastry from feeling heavy. Careful proofing and moderate baking temperature ensure even cooking and a golden crust, resulting in an indulgent yet balanced treat at roughly 280 calories per slice.

Final Thoughts

Raspberry Cheesecake Brioche is a stunning fusion of pastry and dessert—soft, creamy, fruity, and beautifully layered. Its versatility allows it to shine at brunch, dessert, or celebratory gatherings, while simple ingredient swaps can lighten the richness if desired. Whether enjoyed warm with coffee or dressed up with cream or ice cream, this brioche offers a memorable homemade treat that feels truly special.