Cranberry & Goat Cheese Sourdough Bread is a deeply aromatic loaf that brings together the tangy complexity of sourdough, the creamy sharpness of goat cheese, and the gentle sweetness of dried cranberries. With its crackling crust and moist, flavorful crumb, this bread feels both rustic and refined. Moreover, it is ideal for autumn and winter days, festive tables, family dinners, or simply enjoyed warm with butter on a quiet weekend morning.
Servings – Cranberry & Goat Cheese Sourdough Bread
Servings: 8–10 slices (1 round artisan loaf)
Time Required for Cranberry & Goat Cheese Sourdough Bread
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Prep Time: 30 minutes (active)
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Fermentation Time: 12–14 hours
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Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
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Total Time: Approximately 14–15 hours
Ingredients for Cranberry & Goat Cheese Sourdough Bread
Main Ingredients
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500 g bread flour (strong white flour, 11–12% protein)
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350 ml water (room temperature)
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100 g active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
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10 g fine sea salt
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120 g dried cranberries (unsweetened preferred)
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120 g goat cheese (firm, crumbled into large pieces)
Optional Flavor Enhancers
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1 tbsp olive oil (for softer crumb)
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1 tsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
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Zest of ½ orange (for subtle brightness)
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Cranberry & Goat Cheese Sourdough Bread
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Mix the dough base
In a large bowl, combine flour and water until no dry spots remain. Cover and rest for 30 minutes. This autolyse step allows gluten to develop naturally, improving structure and aroma. -
Add starter and salt
Next, add the sourdough starter and salt. Mix thoroughly using a folding motion until the dough becomes cohesive and elastic. Meanwhile, the dough should feel soft but not sticky. -
Incorporate cranberries and goat cheese
Gently fold in the dried cranberries and goat cheese. Take care not to overmix, as the cheese should remain in visible pockets throughout the dough. -
Bulk fermentation
Cover the bowl and let the dough ferment at room temperature for 4–5 hours. During the first 2 hours, perform stretch-and-folds every 30 minutes. Furthermore, this strengthens the dough while evenly distributing flavors. -
Shape the loaf
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Shape into a tight round, building surface tension. Then, place seam-side up into a floured proofing basket. -
Cold proof
Refrigerate the dough for 8–10 hours. This slow fermentation deepens the sourdough flavor and enhances the contrast between cranberries and cheese. -
Bake to perfection
Preheat the oven to 240°C with a Dutch oven inside. Score the dough, transfer carefully, cover, and bake for 25 minutes. Finally, remove the lid and bake for another 15–20 minutes until deeply golden and fragrant.
Variations of Cranberry & Goat Cheese Sourdough Bread
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With Meat:
Add 80 g finely diced prosciutto or smoked turkey for a savory-sweet balance. -
Vegetarian Nut Version:
Replace half the cranberries with chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and depth. -
Creamier Version:
Swirl in 50 g cream cheese along with the goat cheese for an even richer crumb. -
Spicier Version:
Add ½ tsp crushed red chili flakes to introduce gentle heat that contrasts beautifully with the cranberries. -
Seasonal Swap:
Substitute cranberries with dried figs or cherries in spring and summer for a softer sweetness.
Tips for Perfect Results – Cranberry & Goat Cheese Sourdough Bread
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Use an active starter:
A well-fed starter ensures proper rise and balanced acidity. Always test floatability before mixing. -
Control moisture:
If cranberries are very dry, soak them briefly in warm water, then drain thoroughly to avoid drawing moisture from the dough. -
Avoid overmixing cheese:
Keep goat cheese in chunks to create creamy pockets rather than blending it fully into the dough. -
Enhance aroma:
Baking in a Dutch oven traps steam, producing a crisp crust and intensifying flavor development. -
Storage and freezing:
Store wrapped in a cloth for up to 2 days. Additionally, this bread freezes exceptionally well when sliced.
Conclusion
Cranberry & Goat Cheese Sourdough Bread is more than a loaf—it is a carefully balanced expression of texture, aroma, and flavor. The tang of sourdough, the creamy richness of goat cheese, and the gentle sweetness of cranberries create a bread that feels both comforting and sophisticated. Whether served with soup, cheese boards, or enjoyed on its own, this loaf brings warmth and character to every table.
