Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Sourdough Bread

4. Roll and Proof

1. Starting from the long side, tightly roll the dough into a log, pinching the seams to seal.
2. Place the rolled dough seam-side down in a greased loaf pan (9×5 inches). Cover loosely and let it proof for 2–4 hours, or until the dough has risen about 1 inch above the rim of the pan.

5. Preheat and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Optional: Brush the top of the loaf with a little milk or water and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a crunchy topping.
3. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. A thermometer inserted into the center should read 190°F–200°F (88°C–93°C).

6. Cool and Slice

1. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
2. Serve slices plain or toasted, with a smear of butter or additional cream cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions

• For Breakfast: Toast slices and serve with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
• At Brunch: Pair with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or a mimosa for a complete spread.
• As a Snack: Enjoy with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa.
• Meal Prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze slices for longer storage.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh berries hold their shape better during baking, but frozen ones work too—just don’t thaw them first to prevent bleeding.
• Prevent Sticking: If the cream cheese filling feels too soft, chill it briefly before spreading to make it easier to handle.
• Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the sugar in the dough or filling based on your preference for sweetness.
• Double the Recipe: Make two loaves—one to enjoy now and one to freeze for later.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Sourdough Bread is a celebration of flavors and textures, combining the tangy charm of sourdough with the sweetness of blueberries, the brightness of lemon, and the richness of cream cheese. It’s a loaf that’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat.

So grab your sourdough starter, toss in those juicy blueberries and zesty lemons, and bake up this vibrant, swirly masterpiece. One slice of this sweet-and-tangy bread, and you’ll feel like you’ve captured a burst of sunshine in every bite—one soft, flavorful crumb at a time! 🍋🫐