This recipe combines the tanginess of sourdough with the sweetness of blueberries and the creaminess of cream cheese, all brightened with a hint of lemon. It’s a perfect bread for spring or summer, and it’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
For the bread:
- 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
- 3 cups bread flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the cream cheese filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, bread flour, salt, and sugar. Mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
- Add blueberries and lemon: Gently fold in the blueberries and lemon zest.
- Proof the dough: Let the dough rest and rise for 4-5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
- Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Assemble the bread: Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Fold the dough: Fold the dough over the cream cheese mixture, and gently press the edges to seal.
- Shape the bread: Shape the dough into a round or oblong loaf.
- Proof again: Let the bread rest and rise for another 2-3 hours, or until it has doubled in size again.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the bread with beaten egg for a golden glaze. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Tips and Variations
- Use a high-quality sourdough starter for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the dough to preserve the blueberries.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste.
- Try adding other flavors like nuts or cinnamon to the cream cheese mixture.
This bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack. The cream cheese filling adds a rich and creamy element, while the blueberries provide natural sweetness and flavor. The lemon zest adds a bright and citrusy note that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Enjoy!
