Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread

Name: Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: PT-488452H26M28S
Total time: PT-488452H26M28S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 625 grams bread flour (about 4 cups); 100 grams active sourdough starter (about 1 cup); 10 grams salt (about 1 3/4 teaspoon); 450 grams water (about 1 1/2 cup); 1/2 cup sliced raspberries (use freeze-dried for best results); 8 oz softened cream cheese; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: September 20, 2025

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Introduction to Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread

As a busy mom, I get it—finding time to create something special can feel impossible. That’s why I absolutely adore this Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread! Picture this: a gorgeous loaf, bursting with fresh raspberries and a luscious cream cheese filling. It’s like having dessert for breakfast, but it’s bread—so no guilt!

This delightful recipe is not only an impressive treat for your loved ones but also a fun way to unwind in the kitchen. Plus, the intoxicating aroma while it bakes? Pure bliss! Trust me, this bread will quickly become a cherished part of your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread

If you’re anything like me, you appreciate recipes that strike the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. This Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread is a total game-changer! It’s easy to make, thanks to the forgiving nature of sourdough, and the taste is absolutely divine—with that delightful tang from the raspberries combined with creamy richness. Plus, your family and friends will rave about it, making you the star of your kitchen!

Ingredients for Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread

To whip up this enchanting Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge! Here’s what you’ll need:

Bread flour: The backbone of our bread, it gives a wonderful structure and chewiness. Feel free to experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor!
Active sourdough starter: This magical mix of flour and water captures wild yeast to leaven our bread and impart delicious flavor. If you don’t have a starter, consider buying one from a local bakery or online.
Salt: Just a touch adds depth and enhances the flavors in your bread. Remember, not all salts are created equal; I prefer kosher salt for its texture and flavor.
Water: Necessary for hydration, it helps the flour mingle and develops that lovely dough. It’s best to use filtered water, especially in areas with harsher tap water.
Sliced raspberries: These beauties not only add vibrant color but also a fruity zing. For this recipe, freeze-dried raspberries work wonders—they keep that summer essence without watering down our bread.
Cream cheese: For the dreamy, luscious filling, it adds richness and a hint of tang that plays beautifully with the raspberries.
Granulated sugar: A little sweetness balances the tartness of the raspberries. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup if you prefer a natural alternative.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash adds a warm, comforting aroma. Feel free to use almond extract for a delightful twist!

All measurements for these ingredients are included at the bottom of the article and are available for printing, ensuring you have everything handy when you embark on this baking adventure!

How to Make Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread

This Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread may seem complex, but I promise it’s easier than it looks. Let’s take it step by step, and soon you’ll be savoring a delicious loaf that’s bursting with flavor!

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

First, ensure your workspace is clean and inviting. Knead the dough gently, letting your hands feel the texture. Let it rest at room temperature for about 3 hours. This is crucial, as a warm environment promotes yeast activity, helping your dough rise beautifully!

Step 2: Make the Dough Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine your active sourdough starter, water, and bread flour. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything until it forms a shaggy mass. The combined ingredients create the foundation of our Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread!

Step 3: The Autolyse Stage

Let the mixture sit for an hour. This step, known as autolyse, allows the flour to fully absorb the water. The dough will develop a better structure and texture, giving you that perfect chewiness we all love!

Step 4: Add Salt and Rest

Now it’s time to add salt. Sprinkle it over the dough and mix gently until incorporated. Leave it to rest for another 30 minutes. This will enhance the flavor of your bread and contribute to a delightful crunch in the crust!

Step 5: Perform Stretch and Fold

Here comes the fun part! You’ll perform a stretch and fold technique. Grab one edge of the dough and stretch it upward before folding it back onto itself. Repeat this for about 4 sides of the dough. This strengthens the gluten and promotes a beautiful rise!

Step 6: Repeat the Folds

Continue stretching and folding every 30 minutes, completing this process around 3-4 times. The dough should start to feel jiggly and double in size. This crucial technique transforms your dough into something truly special!

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

While your dough is rising, let’s make the luscious cream cheese filling. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This creamy goodness will be the heart of our Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread!

Step 8: Incorporate Raspberries

Now, prepare your raspberries. If you’re using freeze-dried ones, just give them a quick rinse then lightly dry them. Fresh raspberries need a gentle wash and should be dried thoroughly so they don’t add excess moisture to the dough.

Step 9: Shape the Dough

When your dough has risen, it’s time to shape it! Stretch the dough flat into a rectangle, and evenly spread the cream cheese filling and raspberries over it. Fold the dough like an envelope, adding more filling as needed. Then, roll it tightly, shaping it into a ball.

Step 10: Proof the Dough

Place your beautiful shaped dough into a floured banneton or a lined bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours. This long proofing time helps develop the flavors and texture of your Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread!

Step 11: Bake the Bread

After the dough has fermented, remove it from the refrigerator. Let it sit for about an hour. Preheat your oven to an exhilarating 450°F (230°C). Once heated, carefully flip the dough onto parchment paper, score the top with a sharp knife, and transfer it to a preheated Dutch oven. Bake for 35 minutes, uncovering after 20 minutes to let it develop that golden crust!

Step 12: Let it Cool

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool on a rack before slicing. This step is vital; slicing too soon can make the inside gummy. Trust me, the wait will be worth every minute!

Tips for Success

Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for best results.
Be patient with proofing; flavor develops over time, so don’t rush it!
Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements—it’s a game-changer in baking.
Preheat your Dutch oven to maximize the bread’s oven spring.
For extra flavor, sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top before baking!

Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential. A glass or ceramic bowl holds heat well!
Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing the dough. A silicone spatula works too!
Banneton proofing basket: Use this for shaping. If you don’t have one, a bowl lined with a floured towel does the trick!
Sharp knife or lame: Essential for scoring. A dedicated blade allows for precise cuts!
Dutch oven: Ideal for baking. If you don’t have one, any heavy oven-safe pot with a lid can work.

Variations

Fruit Swap: Try using blueberries or strawberries instead of raspberries for a delicious twist on flavor!
Vegan Option: Substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the cream cheese filling for added crunch and flavor.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, inviting flavor!
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips with the raspberries for a decadent addition!

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a creamy cup of coffee or herbal tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
Serve warm, drizzled with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a sweet touch.
Enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad for a colorful, refreshing meal.
Top with whipped cream for a festive dessert option at gatherings!

FAQs about Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of freeze-dried?

While fresh raspberries add a gorgeous burst of flavor, they contain too much moisture. This excess moisture can make the dough soggy. If you still want to try fresh, drain and dry them thoroughly before using.

How do I store my Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread?

To keep your delicious loaf fresh, store it in a bread bag or a plastic bag at room temperature. If you want to save it for later, consider freezing it. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly!

How long does it take for the sourdough to rise?

The entire fermentation process might take around 12 to 24 hours, but remember, patience is key! The longer you let it proof, the more flavor will develop.

Can I make this bread without a sourdough starter?

While a sourdough starter is essential for the signature tangy flavor, you can use active dry yeast as a substitute. Keep in mind that using yeast changes the texture significantly!

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?

If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to an inactive sourdough starter or a too-cool temperature. Be sure your starter is bubbly before use, and try to keep your dough in a warm spot for optimal rising conditions.

Final Thoughts

Embracing the art of baking this Raspberry Cheesecake Sourdough Bread has brought me countless joyful moments in the kitchen. Each bite is a harmonious blend of creamy richness and vibrant raspberries, transforming an ordinary day into a delightful occasion. The smiles from my family as they indulge in homemade goodness are priceless. Whether you’re savoring a slice with coffee or sharing it at a gathering, this bread never fails to impress. I hope you experience the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating this unique treasure—you deserve it!