Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Sourdough Bread
The Ultimate Citrus-Infused Sourdough Treat for Breakfast or Brunch
If you’ve ever dreamed of a bakery-style loaf filled with zesty lemon, juicy blueberries, and a silky cream cheese swirl, this is your recipe. This Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Sourdough Bread combines the tang of natural fermentation with the richness of a cheesecake-style filling and the brightness of fresh citrus—all in a soft, golden crusted loaf.
Whether you're serving it as a showstopper brunch centerpiece, an indulgent afternoon snack, or a gift for neighbors, this loaf offers the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and comforting textures.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (90–100°F / 32–38°C)
 - ¼ cup active sourdough starter (about 60g, fed and bubbly)
 - 3 cups bread flour (360g)
 - 1 tsp salt
 - 1 tbsp granulated sugar
 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
 - 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
 - 1 large egg (room temperature)
 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
 
For the Blueberry Layer:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (do not thaw if frozen)
 
For the Lemon Honey Glaze:
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
 - 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
 
Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
 - Measuring cups and spoons
 - Stand mixer or hands for kneading
 - Rolling pin
 - Baking sheet
 - Parchment paper
 - Small saucepan (for glaze)
 - Wire cooling rack
 
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
- 
In a large bowl, whisk together warm water, sourdough starter, and sugar.
 - 
Add flour, salt, melted butter, egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
 - 
Knead the dough by hand (8–10 minutes) or with a mixer (6–7 minutes) until smooth and elastic.
 
Step 2: First Rise
- 
Place dough in an oiled bowl. Cover and let rise in a warm spot for 4–5 hours, until doubled.
 
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
- 
In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
 - 
Add sugar, egg, and vanilla. Mix until creamy and lump-free. Set aside.
 
Step 4: Shape the Loaf
- 
Punch down the dough and divide into 2 portions.
 - 
Roll each portion into a rectangle about ¼" thick.
 - 
On one rectangle, spread half the cream cheese filling, then sprinkle with half the blueberries.
 - 
Place the second dough rectangle on top. Seal edges and gently shape into a loaf.
 
Step 5: Proof
- 
Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes until slightly puffed.
 - 
Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
 
Step 6: Glaze and Bake
- 
Mix lemon juice and honey. Brush over the loaf.
 - 
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown and hollow-sounding.
 - 
Cool 15–20 minutes before slicing.
 
Tips for Success
- Always use room temperature ingredients for better blending.
 - Do not over-knead or overbake—keep it tender and moist.
 - For extra zing, add a few drops of lemon extract to the filling.
 - Swap in raspberries or strawberries for variation.
 
Serving Ideas
- Toast a slice and top with butter or more cream cheese.
 - Pair with hot tea, iced coffee, or fresh lemonade.
 - Makes a beautiful edible gift during holidays or spring brunches.
 
Nutritional Info (Approx. per slice, 8 servings)
- Calories: 200
 - Protein: 5g
 - Carbs: 25g
 - Fat: 9g
 - Sugar: 8g
 - Fiber: 1g
 

Blueberry Lemon Cream Cheese Sourdough Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Let rise 4–5 hrs until doubled.
 - Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
 - Divide dough in two. Roll each piece into a rectangle.
 - Spread filling and blueberries on one piece. Top with second, seal edges.
 - Let proof 30–45 mins. Preheat oven to 375°F.
 - Brush with lemon glaze. Bake 35–40 mins. Cool before slicing.