Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread

Name: Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 12 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup active sourdough starter; 1 cup warm water; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Crumbs

I always look forward to baking something special on the weekends, and this Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread has quickly become a favorite in our household. The bright burst of lemon combined with the sweetness of blueberries creates an irresistible flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. The process of incorporating sourdough starter adds a delightful tanginess, making each slice uniquely delicious. I promise you'll find it hard to resist the lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes!

Created by

Imogen Price

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:17:36.121Z

When I first attempted this Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread, I was amazed at how well the flavors complemented each other. The acidity from the lemons brightens the naturally sweet blueberries, producing a harmonious blend that is downright addictive. I found that allowing the dough to rest overnight really enhances its flavor, as the sourdough culture has time to do its magic.

One tip I highly recommend is to ensure your blueberries are fresh and ripe; frozen blueberries tend to make the bread soggy. Mixing in a bit of lemon zest not only elevates the taste but also adds an appealing visual touch to the final loaf. Each slice offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and fruity notes of lemon and blueberry that dance on your palate.
Soft, tender crumb that is light yet satisfying.
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert; versatile for any time of day.

Understanding Sourdough Fermentation

Sourdough fermentation is vital for developing the flavor and texture of your bread. When you combine the active sourdough starter with the flour and water, you're activating natural yeasts and bacteria that not only help the dough rise but also impart a distinctive tang. To achieve the best results, ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and has been fed within the last 6-12 hours before using it. This freshness promotes a robust fermentation process that results in a light and airy loaf.

The timing of the bulk fermentation significantly influences the final product. Aim for a warm environment between 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C) for optimal yeast activity. You’ll know the dough is ready when it has doubled in size and exhibits a pleasing elasticity, stretching without tearing. If your kitchen is chilly, consider using a proofing box or an oven with the light on to maintain warmth.

Choosing and Handling Blueberries

Selecting the right blueberries can elevate the experience of this loaf. Fresh blueberries are preferred, as frozen ones tend to release more moisture, potentially making the bread soggy. When incorporating them, gently fold them into the dough to avoid breaking them and releasing juices that can affect dough consistency. I find that using blueberries that are plump and firm yields the best flavor and texture.

If you're looking for a substitute, consider using diced strawberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile. Meanwhile, to boost the lemon flavor, you might also add a tablespoon of lemon juice alongside the zest. Just be cautious with any additional liquid, as it can disrupt the dough’s hydration balance.

Serving and Storing Your Bread

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by spreading a layer of cream cheese or butter for added richness. Try serving it as part of a brunch spread or toasting slices for breakfast. The unique combination of flavors complements coffee or tea beautifully, enhancing your morning routine or afternoon snack.

Storing your bread properly ensures that its texture remains optimal. It can be kept at room temperature for 3-4 days, tightly wrapped in plastic. For longer storage, consider freezing slices; wrap them individually and place them in an airtight bag. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or toast straight from the freezer for a warm treat.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious bread:

Main Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup active sourdough starter
1 cup warm water
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 cup fresh blueberries

Mix these ingredients well, and you'll be on your way to perfect sourdough bread!

Instructions

Follow these steps to achieve perfect Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread:

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sourdough starter, warm water, sugar, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are mixed well. Allow the dough to rest for 30 minutes to an hour to develop gluten.

Add Blueberries and Lemon Zest

Gently fold in the lemon zest and fresh blueberries. Take care not to mash the blueberries too much.

Bulk Fermentation

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 6-8 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape and Second Rise

Once risen, gently shape the dough into a loaf. Place it in a lightly greased loaf pan and cover until it rises for about 1-2 hours.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cool and Enjoy

Remove the bread from the oven, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy your delightful blueberry lemon sourdough!

Enjoy the fruits of your labor in every delicious slice!

Pro Tips

For best results, use fresh blueberries and allow your dough to ferment longer for deeper flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bread doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to an inactive sourdough starter or cool ambient temperatures. Always check the starter's activity before using it. You should see bubbles throughout, and it should have a slightly acidic smell. If it's been a while since you fed it, consider giving it a refresh to boost its potency.

Another common issue is a dry or dense loaf, which might stem from too little hydration. Make sure to measure ingredients accurately and consider adjusting the flour or water if you notice your dough feels too stiff.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down to suit your needs. If you want to make more loaves, simply multiply each ingredient by the desired factor. Remember to retain the same fermentation times; this allows the dough to maintain its flavor profile and rise properly, even in larger batches.

For smaller portions, consider making half a loaf. Follow all the steps as usual, but keep an eye on fermentation and rising times, as they may vary slightly with smaller amounts.

Exploring Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe. Incorporating nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and extra flavor. You might also experiment with adding spices like a dash of cinnamon to complement the blueberries and lemon.

For a unique twist, consider adding a lemon glaze on top once the bread cools completely. A simple mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice can transform your bread into a delightful dessert worthy of any table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

It's recommended to use fresh blueberries to avoid excessive moisture, but if you use frozen ones, add them directly to the dough without thawing.

→ What if I don't have a sourdough starter?

You can either make your own or substitute with store-bought yeast, adjusting the recipe accordingly for a quicker bread.

→ How do I store the bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! Other berries like raspberries or strawberries can be substituted, just ensure they're not too watery.