An indulgent brioche loaf swirled with creamy cheesecake filling and fresh blueberries - this show-stopping bread combines the best of French pastry with American cheesecake flavors.

Recipe Details
Units:
Prep: 40 Cook: 45
Ingredients
  • 400g bread flour
  • 50g granulated sugar
  • 7g instant yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 120ml whole milk, warm
  • 100g unsalted butter, softened
  • 200g cream cheese, softened
  • 60g powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 150g fresh blueberries
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 large egg beaten with 1 tbsp milk for wash
Instructions
  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine 400g bread flour, 50g granulated sugar, 7g instant yeast, and 1 tsp salt. Using the dough hook, mix on low speed while adding 3 large eggs and 120ml whole milk. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

  2. Increase speed to medium and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Gradually add 100g unsalted butter, one piece at a time, until fully incorporated. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

  3. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours until doubled in size.

  4. Meanwhile, make the cheesecake filling by beating 200g cream cheese, 60g powdered sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 large egg yolk until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 150g fresh blueberries and 1 tsp lemon zest. Set aside.

  5. Once risen, punch down the dough and roll out on a floured surface into a 12x16 inch rectangle. Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.

  6. Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife, cut the log in half lengthwise, exposing the filling.

  7. Twist the two halves together, keeping the cut sides facing up to show the marbled pattern. Place in a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan.

  8. Cover and let rise for 45-60 minutes until puffy. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

  9. Brush the top with 1 large egg beaten with 1 tbsp milk for wash and bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 85°C (185°F). Cover with foil if browning too quickly.

  10. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips

Dough Consistency: The brioche dough should be soft and slightly sticky. If too wet, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time. If too dry, add milk 1 teaspoon at a time.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, milk, and cream cheese are at room temperature for the best texture and easier mixing.

Shaping Technique: Don't worry if the twisting looks messy - the rustic, marbled appearance is part of the charm of this bread.

Blueberry Prep: Toss blueberries in a little flour before folding into the filling to prevent them from sinking.

Storage: Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Excellent toasted with butter.

Make-Ahead: The dough can be made the night before and refrigerated after the first rise. Bring to room temperature before shaping.