- In a small saucepan, combine blueberries, lemon juice, and sugar over medium heat.
- Cook for 5 minutes, until the blueberries begin to soften and release juice.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture and simmer for 2 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sourdough starter, warm water, salt, honey, and lemon zest.
- Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Perform 3-4 stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes over 2 hours. Cover and let ferment at room temperature for 6-8 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
- Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough into a rectangle.
- Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the dough.
- Spoon the blueberry lemon mixture on top.
- Gently roll the dough into a log, like a cinnamon roll, and pinch the seam to seal.
- Place into a proofing basket or greased loaf pan.
Step 5: Final Rise & Bake
- Cover the dough and let it rise for 1-2 hours until puffy.
- Preheat the oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
- Brush the top with egg wash for a golden crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Serve warm with butter, honey, or extra cream cheese!
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
- Freeze for up to 2 monthsβjust thaw and reheat before serving!
Variants & Add-Ins
- Almond Crunch β Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
- Extra Tangy β Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice to the dough.
- Cinnamon Blueberry Swirl β Add Β½ teaspoon cinnamon to the blueberry mixture.
- Nutty Flavor β Mix in ΒΌ cup chopped pecans or walnuts.
FAQ
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of sourdough?
Yes! Replace the starter with 1 packet (2 ΒΌ tsp) active dry yeast and reduce water to ΒΎ cup (180ml).
2. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes! Just thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
3. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?
Make sure to seal the dough tightly and avoid overfilling.
4. Can I make this bread without cream cheese?
Absolutely! Just skip the filling for a simple blueberry lemon sourdough loaf.
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