Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread Recipe

Lemon blueberry sourdough bread is a delightful combination of tangy, sweet, and slightly sour flavors, making it a perfect treat for breakfast or a snack.

The fresh taste of lemon blends beautifully with the juicy blueberries, while the sourdough adds a slight tang that makes this bread unique.

Unlike regular bread, sourdough is made with a natural starter instead of commercial yeast, giving it a rich texture and deeper flavor.

This bread is soft on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside, and bursting with fruity goodness.

Making this bread at home is a fun experience, and the result is worth the effort.

Even if you have never baked sourdough before, this recipe is simple enough to follow.

All you need are a few ingredients, a little patience, and a love for baking.

The process may take some time, but the result is a delicious homemade bread that is far better than anything store-bought.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose or bread flour
• 1 cup active sourdough starter
• 3/4 cup water (room temperature)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup honey or sugar
• Zest of 1 large lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)

Step By Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, water, and honey.

Stir until the mixture is smooth.

Slowly add the flour and salt, mixing well with a spoon or your hands.

Once the dough starts to come together, add the lemon zest and lemon juice. Knead the dough gently until everything is well combined.

The dough will be slightly sticky but should hold its shape.

Cover the bowl with a towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Stretch and Fold

After the dough has rested, it’s time to build strength in the bread.

Instead of kneading, you will stretch and fold the dough.

Take one side of the dough, stretch it upward, and fold it over the rest of the dough.

Turn the bowl and repeat this step on all four sides.

Cover the bowl again and let it rest for another 30 minutes.

Repeat this process two more times.

This step helps create a light and airy texture in the bread.

Step 3: Add the Blueberries

Gently fold the blueberries into the dough after the final stretch and fold.

Be careful not to mash them too much.

The goal is to evenly distribute the blueberries without breaking them apart.

If the dough becomes too wet, lightly dust it with a little flour to help absorb some of the extra moisture.

Once the blueberries are mixed in, let the dough rest for another hour to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Lightly flour a clean surface and transfer the dough onto it.

Gently shape the dough into a round or oval loaf by pulling the edges toward the center and tucking them underneath.

This helps create tension on the surface, which will allow the bread to rise properly.

Place the shaped dough onto a lightly floured towel or parchment paper and cover it with a cloth.

Let it rise at room temperature for about 4-6 hours or until it has nearly doubled in size.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it inside the oven while it preheats.

Once the oven is ready, carefully transfer the dough into the Dutch oven or onto a baking sheet.

If you have a sharp knife or razor blade, make a small cut on top of the dough to allow it to expand while baking.

Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and bake for 20 minutes.

Then, remove the lid and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

After baking, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least an hour before slicing.

This step is important because it allows the inside of the bread to set properly.

Once cooled, slice and enjoy the delicious combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries in every bite.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container or wrap them in a cloth to keep them fresh for a few days.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Lemon blueberry sourdough bread is not just delicious but also a healthier alternative to store-bought bread.

The natural fermentation process of sourdough makes it easier to digest, and it has a lower glycemic index compared to regular bread.

The addition of blueberries provides natural sweetness and antioxidants, while the lemon adds a fresh and zesty flavor.

This bread is perfect for breakfast with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey.

It also makes a great snack or dessert when served with a cup of tea or coffee.

The best part about this recipe is that it allows for creativity.

You can swap blueberries for raspberries, add nuts for extra crunch, or even sprinkle some cinnamon for a warm, spiced twist.

No matter how you customize it, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Conclusion

Baking lemon blueberry sourdough bread is a fun and rewarding experience that results in a soft, flavorful, and naturally sweetened loaf.

With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a homemade bread that is both delicious and nutritious.

Whether you are new to sourdough or an experienced baker, this recipe is easy to follow and will fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of fresh bread.

Give it a try, and enjoy a slice of homemade goodness!