Ingredients
Method
Mixing the Dough
- In a large bowl, stir together the flour, water, and starter until you get a shaggy mass. Rest uncovered for 30 minutes so the flour hydrates.
Kneading the Dough
- Sprinkle the salt over the dough, then fold and knead by hand for 3–5 minutes until the dough feels smoother and a bit tacky.
Bulk Fermentation
- Cover the bowl and let it sit for 4–6 hours at room temperature, performing stretch-and-folds every 30–45 minutes.
Prepare the Filling
- Beat the cream cheese with lemon zest and sugar until smooth, and chill briefly if it softens too much.
Final Fold
- On the final fold, gently sprinkle in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them. The dough should show air bubbles and hold shape.
Shape and Fill
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface, press into a rectangle, and spread the cream cheese across the center. Fold like a letter, roll into a round boule, and pinch seams tight.
Cold Proofing
- Place seam-side up in a floured banneton or towel-lined bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 8–12 hours.
Preheat and Bake
- Heat your oven to 250°C (482°F) with a Dutch oven inside, then invert the dough onto parchment, score, and lower into the hot pot. Cover and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake at 220°C (428°F) for another 20–25 minutes until deep golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Glaze the Crust
- While still warm, brush honey mixed with lemon juice over the loaf for shine and a bright finish.
Notes
For a time-saver, use a warm proofing spot to speed up bulk fermentation. To prevent blueberries from bleeding, fold them in on the last stretch-and-fold. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla or cardamom for extra flavor.
