Introduction to Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to preparing meals. That’s why I absolutely adore this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread! It’s a delightful blend of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, making it perfect for breakfast or a quick snack. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes, inviting your family to gather around. This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a touch of joy to your day. Trust me, it’s a simple way to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread is a game-changer for busy days. It’s easy to make, requiring minimal hands-on time while the dough rises. The combination of zesty lemon and juicy blueberries creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up that sourdough starter sitting in your fridge. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again, and your family will thank you for it!
Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your bread, providing structure and texture. You can also use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- Sourdough starter: The magic ingredient! It adds that delightful tang and helps the bread rise. If you don’t have a starter, you can make one or use store-bought.
- Warm water: This helps activate the sourdough starter. Make sure it’s not too hot, or it could kill the yeast.
- Sugar: Just a touch to balance the tartness of the lemon and enhance the overall flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best! It adds a bright, zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with the blueberries.
- Lemon zest: This is where the lemon’s essential oils live! It intensifies the lemon flavor and adds a lovely aroma.
- Salt: Essential for flavor and controlling yeast activity. Don’t skip it!
- Fresh blueberries: The star of the show! They burst with sweetness and add a pop of color. Ripe blueberries work best for this recipe.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a loaf that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine your sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Mix them well until the sugar dissolves. This mixture is the foundation of your bread, so make sure it’s nice and smooth. The warm water will help activate the starter, giving your bread that lovely rise.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Next, add the all-purpose flour, salt, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the bowl. Stir until a dough forms. Once it’s combined, turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes. You want it to be smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as you go. Think of it as giving your dough a little workout!
Step 3: Incorporate the Blueberries
Now comes the fun part—gently fold in the fresh blueberries. Be careful not to squish them! You want those juicy bursts of flavor intact. This step adds a beautiful pop of color and sweetness to your bread.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 4-6 hours, or until it doubles in size. This is where the magic happens! The longer you let it rise, the more flavor develops.
Step 5: Shape the Loaf
Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Shape it into a loaf by folding the edges toward the center. Place it in a greased loaf pan, seam side down. This is where it will take its final shape before baking.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the loaf with the kitchen towel again and let it rise for about 1 hour. This second rise is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. You’ll notice it puffing up nicely, ready to be baked!
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the oven is hot, pop your loaf in and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Step 8: Cool and Slice
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important; slicing too soon can make it gummy. Once it’s cool, slice it up and enjoy your delicious Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread!
Tips for Success
- Use ripe blueberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Don’t rush the rising times; they’re key for flavor and texture.
- Keep your workspace floured to prevent sticking while kneading.
- For a crustier loaf, place a pan of water in the oven while baking.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy plastic or glass bowl works well.
- Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan is ideal. If you don’t have one, a round cake pan can work too.
- Kitchen towel: To cover the dough while it rises. A clean dishcloth will do just fine.
- Wire rack: For cooling the bread. If you don’t have one, a plate can serve as a substitute.
Variations
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this bread gluten-free. Just ensure your sourdough starter is also gluten-free!
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist that complements the lemon and blueberries beautifully.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor.
- Vegan Version: Replace the sugar with maple syrup and use a plant-based sourdough starter to make it vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy a slice of Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread with a pat of creamy butter for a delightful breakfast.
- Pair it with a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing glass of lemonade for a perfect afternoon snack.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a stunning dessert presentation.
- Serve alongside a light salad for a balanced lunch option.
FAQs about Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread
Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just fine. Just toss them in straight from the freezer to avoid them getting mushy. They’ll still add that burst of flavor!
How do I store Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread?
To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, slice it and freeze it for up to three months.
Can I make this bread without a sourdough starter?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have a sourdough starter, you can use store-bought yeast. Just mix it with warm water and sugar to activate it before adding to the dough.
What can I serve with Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with butter, cream cheese, or even a light drizzle of honey. It’s also delicious alongside a fresh fruit salad or a cup of tea!
Can I add more lemon flavor to the bread?
Of course! You can increase the lemon zest or add a bit more lemon juice for an extra zing. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, as it may affect the dough consistency.
Final Thoughts
Baking Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that fills your home with warmth and joy. The delightful aroma wafting through the air is enough to make anyone smile. Each slice is a perfect balance of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, making it a treat for any time of day. Whether you’re sharing it with family at breakfast or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this bread brings a little sunshine into your life. I hope you find as much joy in baking and sharing this bread as I do!
Print
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread: A Tangy Sweet Delight!
- Total Time: 6 hours
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread is a delightful combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, creating a unique flavor profile that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Mix well.
- Add the flour, salt, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Incorporate the blueberries gently into the dough.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 4-6 hours or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Let the dough rise again for about 1 hour.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow to cool before slicing.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe blueberries.
- Adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference.
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread, Sourdough Bread, Lemon Bread, Blueberry Bread



