Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese
Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese is a delightful blend of tangy lemon, sweet blueberries, and the creamy richness of cream cheese, all wrapped in a soft and chewy sourdough loaf.
This recipe combines the tartness of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries, making it a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert. The addition of cream cheese adds a unique twist that elevates the flavor profile.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty lemon flavor complements the sweetness of blueberries
- Creamy cream cheese filling adds a delicious surprise
- Perfect balance of flavors in a soft sourdough loaf
The Magic of Sourdough
Sourdough bread is beloved for its unique tangy flavor and chewy texture, which comes from the natural fermentation process. This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese takes that classic base and elevates it with bright, refreshing flavors. The addition of lemon zest not only enhances the overall taste but also complements the sweetness of the blueberries perfectly. As you bite into this loaf, you'll experience the delightful contrast between the soft, airy bread and the rich, creamy filling.
Moreover, sourdough is celebrated for its potential health benefits. The fermentation process helps break down gluten and phytic acid, making it easier to digest and allowing your body to absorb more nutrients. This recipe not only satisfies your cravings but also offers a wholesome choice for your bread basket.
Flavor Pairing Delight
The combination of lemon and blueberries is a classic that never goes out of style. The tartness of the lemon cuts through the sweetness of the blueberries, creating a harmonious blend that dances on your palate. This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese is not just a feast for the stomach, but also for the senses. The vibrant colors and aromas make it a beautiful addition to any breakfast or brunch spread.
Adding cream cheese into the mix introduces a luscious creaminess that takes this recipe over the top. It serves as a delightful surprise, enhancing each bite with its smooth texture and subtle sweetness. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted later, this bread is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Tips for Perfecting Your Loaf
To achieve the best results with this recipe, make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before you begin. A well-fed starter will ensure proper fermentation and a beautifully risen loaf. If you're new to sourdough baking, it may take a few tries to get the hang of it, but don't be discouraged! Each loaf is a learning experience, and the more you practice, the better your bread will become.
Additionally, be mindful of your oven temperature. Every oven behaves differently, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent burning. The goal is a golden brown crust that encases a soft, fluffy interior.
Ingredients
For the Sourdough Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup bread flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter, active
- 1 cup water, lukewarm
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to use fresh blueberries for the best flavor!
Directions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, sourdough starter, lukewarm water, sugar, lemon zest, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead and Rise
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.
Shape the Bread
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and fold in the blueberries gently. Roll the dough out into a rectangle, spread the cream cheese mixture over the surface, and roll it up tightly.
Final Rise and Bake
Place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese!
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese is versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of day. For breakfast, serve it warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. It's also a fantastic base for French toast—just dip slices in an egg mixture and cook them on a skillet for a decadent morning treat.
For a delightful afternoon snack, consider pairing slices with a cup of tea or coffee. The citrus and berry flavors will brighten your day and provide a perfect pick-me-up. You can also toast the bread and top it with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a sprinkle of granola for a satisfying snack.
Storing Your Bread
To keep your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough fresh, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prolong its life, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer. This will help retain its moisture and flavor, allowing you to enjoy your delicious bread weeks later.
When you're ready to enjoy some frozen bread, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. You can also pop slices in the toaster to refresh them, bringing back that delightful texture and flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough.
→ How should I store the bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a vegan alternative and use a plant-based yogurt or milk for the dough.
→ What can I serve with this bread?
This bread is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with butter, additional cream cheese, or a fruit spread.
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese is a delightful blend of tangy lemon, sweet blueberries, and the creamy richness of cream cheese, all wrapped in a soft and chewy sourdough loaf.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Easy Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup bread flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter, active
- 1 cup water, lukewarm
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, sourdough starter, lukewarm water, sugar, lemon zest, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a bowl, mix together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and fold in the blueberries gently. Roll the dough out into a rectangle, spread the cream cheese mixture over the surface, and roll it up tightly.
Place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g