If there’s one recipe that has truly stolen my heart, it’s this Sweet Sourdough Bread with Blueberries & Cream Cheese Filling. It started as a fun experiment in my kitchen, but quickly became a beloved staple for special breakfasts and brunch gatherings. There’s something magical about the tangy sourdough combined with sweet blueberries, creamy cheese filling, and a hint of fresh lemon.

The first time I made this bread, it was purely out of curiosity. I had some fresh blueberries and cream cheese that needed using, and my sourdough starter was bubbling away happily. As I kneaded and folded the dough, I could already imagine how wonderful the flavors would be. The moment I pulled the golden loaf from the oven, with blueberries oozing through the cracks and the honey glaze glistening on top, I knew it was something special.

What I love most is how versatile and forgiving this bread is. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your sourdough journey, this recipe will reward you with a beautiful loaf every time. Plus, my family can never wait for it to cool down completely before digging in—it’s just that good!

Why You’ll Love Sweet Sourdough Bread with Blueberries

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of tangy sourdough, sweet blueberries, creamy cheese, and bright lemon creates an irresistible blend. The flavors complement each other perfectly, providing a sweet, creamy, and slightly tangy bite every time.
• Artisan Quality Made at Home: Achieve bakery-style bread with minimal effort using a Dutch oven. It’s like having a professional bread oven right in your kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love helping to sprinkle the blueberries or glaze the bread. It’s a fun and rewarding process that can become a cherished weekend tradition.
• Overnight Fermentation: This allows for enhanced flavor development and makes the dough easier to handle. The long fermentation also helps improve the bread’s texture and shelf life.
• Versatile: Switch up the fillings or try new flavor combinations to make it your own. From adding nuts for extra crunch to experimenting with different berries, the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 400g bread flour (high-protein flour works best)
• 100g active sourdough starter (bubbly and ready to use)
• 275g water
• 8g salt
• 1 tbsp honey (adds subtle sweetness and helps with browning)

The Filling

• 100g cream cheese (softened, full-fat preferred for richness)
• 2 tbsp sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon (adds brightness)
• 1 cup fresh blueberries

For the Honey Lemon Glaze

• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Variations

• Swap blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries.
• Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream cheese filling for extra depth.
• Try mixing in chopped nuts or dried fruits for a different texture.
• Use mascarpone instead of cream cheese for a richer filling.

How to Make Sweet Sourdough Bread

1. Prepare the Dough Sweet Sourdough Bread with Blueberries

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, water, and honey.
• Add the bread flour and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
• Let the dough rest for 30 minutes (autolyse), which helps hydrate the flour and develop gluten.
• Add salt and mix until fully incorporated.

2. Stretch and Fold

• Every 30 minutes, perform a series of stretch and folds over 2-3 hours.
• Gently lift and stretch the dough from one side, folding it over itself. Repeat from all four sides.
• This technique helps build gluten structure and strength without overworking the dough. It also distributes the filling evenly.

3. Add the Filling

• Spread the dough out gently and evenly.
• Mix cream cheese, sugar, and lemon zest until smooth.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
• Sprinkle fresh blueberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
• Roll the dough up carefully, similar to making cinnamon rolls.

4. Shape and Cold Ferment

• Shape the dough into a round or oval loaf and place it in a floured banneton or bowl.
• Cover and refrigerate overnight (12-24 hours). This slow fermentation develops deeper flavors and makes the dough easier to handle.

5. Bake the Bread

• Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside.
• Score the bread using a sharp knife or lame to allow for expansion.
• Carefully transfer the dough to the hot Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove the lid and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden brown.

6. Apply Honey Lemon Glaze

• Mix honey and lemon juice together.
• Brush the glaze over the warm bread right after baking for a beautiful shine and extra flavor.

Success Tips

• Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before starting.
• Handle the dough gently when adding blueberries to prevent bursting.
• Cold fermentation makes the dough easier to work with and enhances flavor.
• Use a Dutch oven to achieve a crisp crust and tender crumb.
• Keep ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

How to Store and Enjoy

• Store the bread in a plastic bag or airtight container for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
• Reheat frozen slices in the oven for a freshly baked experience.

Serving Suggestions Sweet Sourdough Bread with Blueberries

• Serve warm with coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
• Enjoy as-is or with a thin spread of butter.
• Pair with fruit preserves or whipped cream for a luxurious touch.
• Toasted slices make an excellent base for sweet or savory spreads.

More Recipes to Try

Here are more delightful treats to explore:

• Chocolate Banana Oat Muffins – Moist and healthy muffins combining ripe bananas, oats, and rich chocolate chips, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
• Honey Banana Oat Cake – A naturally sweetened cake blending ripe bananas, fiber-rich oats, and the natural goodness of honey for a wholesome dessert.
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Cream Trifle – A decadent fusion of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and sweet bananas, layered with whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
• Coconut Pineapple Banana Bread – A tropical twist on classic banana bread, incorporating juicy pineapple and shredded coconut for extra flavor and moisture.
• Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread – A moist and spiced bread studded with rich chocolate chips, offering a delightful flavor perfect for fall mornings or dessert.

If you’re looking for even more delicious and creative recipe ideas, be sure to check out this great resource for inspiration: Easy Bagel with Lox Recipe

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Sweet Sourdough Bread with Blueberries & Cream Cheese Filling is truly a labor of love. Whether you’re baking it for your family, friends, or just yourself, it’s bound to impress. Don’t forget to pin this recipe on Pinterest and share your own creative variations!

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