Why Make This Recipe

Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread is a delightful combination of flavors. The tangy taste of sourdough pairs perfectly with the sweetness of blueberries and the brightness of lemon. This bread is not only delicious but also brings a touch of homemade charm to your breakfast or snack time. Making this bread from scratch allows you to enjoy fresh ingredients and the satisfaction of baking at home.

How to Make Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread

Ingredients:

50g active sourdough starter
350g water
500g bread flour
11g salt
150g fresh blueberries
Zest of a lemon
8 Tablespoons butter, room temperature (113g)
1/2 cup fresh blueberries, mashed (75g)
2 Tablespoons honey (45g)
A pinch of salt

Directions:

In a large bowl, mix the active sourdough starter with water until it combines well.
Add the bread flour and salt to the mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
Incorporate the fresh blueberries and lemon zest into the dough.
Knead the dough for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise until it has increased in size by at least 50%.
Check the dough; it should look light and jiggle when shaken. There should be visible bubbles in and on top of the dough.
Perform a windowpane test by stretching a small piece of dough. It should not tear easily.
Next, gently fold the dough and incorporate the mashed blueberries, butter, honey, and a pinch of salt.
Shape the dough and place it into a greased loaf pan.
Cover and let it rise again until it doubles in size.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.

How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread

This charming bread can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it warm, toasted with a bit of butter for breakfast, or slice it for a delightful afternoon snack. It pairs beautifully with tea or coffee. You can also try it with cream cheese or a light spread for added flavor.

How to Store Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread

To keep your bread fresh, store it at room temperature in a sealed plastic bag or a bread box. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the bread. Slice it before freezing for easy access. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Tips to Make Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread

Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best results.
Use fresh blueberries for the most flavor; frozen ones can alter the texture.
Adjust the amount of lemon zest to your taste preference.
If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour during kneading.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by adding different fruits such as raspberries or blackberries. For a richer flavor, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few nuts for crunch.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, but it may affect the texture.

How long does it take for the dough to rise?

It usually takes about 4-6 hours at room temperature, but this can vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen.

What if my bread doesn’t rise?

Make sure your sourdough starter is active. If the bread doesn’t rise, it may be because the starter is old or inactive. You can refresh it before using.