2. Lemon Cream Cheese Bread
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
½ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 large egg
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp salt
For the Lemon Glaze (optional):
½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk, 1 tsp sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add softened butter, cream cheese, egg, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead: Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes (or use a mixer with a dough hook) until smooth, soft, and elastic. The dough should feel slightly tacky but not sticky.
4. First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape: Punch down the dough gently and shape it into a loaf. Place in a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan or on a parchment-lined tray.
6. Second Rise: Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.
7. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown.
8. Glaze: Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the warm bread.
Result: Soft, buttery, slightly tangy bread with a creamy, rich flavor — like lemon cheesecake meets brioche. 🍋💛