Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Sourdough Bread

Ingredients (Makes 1 large oval loaf):

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm water (90–100°F / 32–38°C)
• ¼ cup active sourdough starter (fed and bubbly – about 60g)
• 3 cups bread flour (360g)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for mild sweetness)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter , melted (or plant-based butter for dairy-free version)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 tsp lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese , softened
• ¼ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 large egg (room temp – helps prevent lumps)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Blueberry Topping:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw frozen berries before using)

For the Lemon Honey Wash:

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Warm water
• Sourdough starter
• Sugar

Add:

• Bread flour
• Salt
• Melted butter
• Egg
• Lemon zest and juice

Stir until a shaggy dough forms .

Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes , or in a stand mixer on medium speed for 6–7 minutes , until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky—but not sticky.

Step 2: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel.

Let it rise in a warm place for 4–5 hours , or until doubled in size .

The time may vary depending on your starter strength and room temperature.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

While the dough rises, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.

Add:

• Sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract

Beat until fully combined and smooth. If too thick, let sit at room temperature to soften further.

Set aside while shaping the dough.

Step 4: Divide & Roll the Dough

Once risen, gently punch down the dough and divide into two equal portions .

On a lightly floured surface, roll out each half into a rectangle about ¼-inch thick .

Step 5: Layer the Filling & Blueberries

Place one rolled-out dough piece on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Spread ½ of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

Scatter blueberries generously over the cream cheese layer.

Top with the second rolled-out dough rectangle.

Press the edges firmly to seal and shape into a round or oval loaf .

Step 6: Final Proof

Cover loosely with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and let the loaf rest for 30–45 minutes , or until slightly puffed.Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.

Step 7: Brush with Lemon Honey Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Lemon juice
• Honey

Brush generously over the top of the loaf before baking.

This glaze adds shine, flavor, and a golden finish.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 35–40 minutes , or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.