Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese
Highlighted under: Artisan Dessert Bakes
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese is a delightful twist on traditional sourdough bread, infused with zesty lemon and juicy blueberries, topped with a creamy cheese spread.
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese is a perfect springtime treat. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a refreshing flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the cream cheese.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright citrus flavor that wakes up your taste buds
- Soft and fluffy crumb with a delicious crust
- Versatile for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese is a beautiful harmony of flavors that highlights the best of both worlds. The bright, zesty lemon infuses the bread with a refreshing taste that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the blueberries. This unique combination creates a delightful eating experience that is both satisfying and invigorating, making it a standout choice for any meal.
Using fresh blueberries not only adds flavor but also provides a burst of color to the loaf, making it visually appealing. The addition of lemon zest enhances the bread's aroma, enticing anyone nearby. Together, these ingredients transform a simple sourdough into a gourmet treat that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Versatility in Every Slice
One of the most appealing aspects of Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is its versatility. This bread can be enjoyed in numerous ways, whether as a breakfast staple, a brunch centerpiece, or a delightful dessert. Toast a slice and spread some butter for a classic breakfast, or enjoy it with a cup of coffee for a mid-morning pick-me-up.
For brunch, consider serving it alongside scrambled eggs or a fruit salad to balance the flavors. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, the cream cheese topping adds a rich and creamy element that elevates each slice, making it a delicious dessert option that’s sure to impress.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough turns out perfectly, it’s important to pay attention to the quality of your ingredients. Use a healthy, active sourdough starter for the best rise and flavor. Additionally, fresh blueberries are key; frozen berries can add excess moisture and alter the texture of the bread.
Don’t rush the rising times. Allowing the dough to double in size during the first rise is crucial for developing flavor and texture. Similarly, the second rise after shaping helps achieve a light and airy loaf. Patience is a baker's best friend!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious sourdough bread:
For the Sourdough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Cream Cheese Topping
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start the preparation process!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough:
Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Mix well.
- Add the flour, salt, lemon zest, and blueberries. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Loaf
Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and cover again. Let it rise for another hour.
Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Serve
Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Spread the cream cheese topping on each slice and enjoy!
Your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese is ready to be enjoyed!
Storage and Freshness
To keep your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to preserve it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last for up to three months in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy this delicious bread anytime.
When you're ready to eat the frozen bread, simply thaw it at room temperature and then reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its freshness and crusty exterior. This way, you can savor the delightful flavors of lemon and blueberry whenever you wish.
Creative Variations
While the classic Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is fantastic on its own, feel free to get creative! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can introduce a satisfying crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor. You might also experiment with different fruits, such as raspberries or cranberries, to create your own signature loaf.
For a more decadent touch, consider swirling in a lemon curd or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough. Each variation can lead to a new favorite recipe, so don’t hesitate to explore and personalize this delightful bread!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but they may release more moisture into the dough.
→ How do I store leftover bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.
→ What should I serve with this bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or as part of a brunch spread.
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Cream Cheese is a delightful twist on traditional sourdough bread, infused with zesty lemon and juicy blueberries, topped with a creamy cheese spread.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Artisan Dessert Bakes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Cream Cheese Topping
- 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 sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Mix well.
- Add the flour, salt, lemon zest, and blueberries. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Once risen, punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and cover again. Let it rise for another hour.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Spread the cream cheese topping on each slice and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 6g