Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lemon Zest Crumb

Name: Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lemon Zest Crumb
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 500g all-purpose flour; 350ml warm water; 100g active sourdough starter; 10g salt; 200g fresh blueberries; Zest of 1 lemon; 50g all-purpose flour; 30g unsalted butter, melted; 50g sugar; Zest of 1 lemon; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lemon Zest Crumb is a delightful twist on traditional sourdough bread, bursting with fresh blueberries and zesty lemon flavor.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2025-12-25T20:38:27.536Z

This unique sourdough bread combines the tangy flavor of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries, creating a perfect balance of taste. The lemon zest crumb topping adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A refreshing burst of blueberry and lemon in every slice
The crunchy lemon zest crumb on top enhances the flavor
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack

      

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is not just any bread; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The natural sweetness of fresh blueberries beautifully complements the tangy brightness of lemon, creating a harmonious balance that makes every slice a joy to eat. Whether you enjoy it toasted with a pat of butter or fresh out of the oven, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Using lemon zest in both the bread and the crumb topping elevates this recipe even further. The zest infuses the dough with a refreshing aroma, while the crumbled topping adds a delightful crunch. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that is both invigorating and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why Sourdough?

Sourdough bread stands out among its peers due to the unique fermentation process that gives it its characteristic tangy flavor and chewy texture. The natural fermentation not only enhances the taste but also improves the bread's nutritional profile. The presence of probiotics can aid digestion, making sourdough a healthier option compared to regular bread.

Moreover, baking with sourdough starter connects you to a traditional craft that has been passed down through generations. The process of nurturing a starter and watching it come to life is both rewarding and fulfilling. By incorporating this ancient method into your baking, you are not only creating delicious bread but also embracing a time-honored baking tradition.

Serving Suggestions

Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. For breakfast, consider toasting slices and spreading a layer of cream cheese or ricotta for a decadent start to your day. You can also top it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness, creating a delightful breakfast treat.

For a more casual afternoon snack, pair this bread with a cup of tea or coffee. The refreshing lemon and berry flavors complement warm beverages beautifully. Additionally, this sourdough can be used in recipes such as French toast or bread pudding, providing a unique twist on classic dishes. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this bread is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Sourdough

500g all-purpose flour
350ml warm water
100g active sourdough starter
10g salt
200g fresh blueberries
Zest of 1 lemon

For the Lemon Zest Crumb

50g all-purpose flour
30g unsalted butter, melted
50g sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
Pinch of salt

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Steps

Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, warm water, and sourdough starter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

Add Ingredients

After the autolyse, add salt, blueberries, and lemon zest. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let it rise at room temperature for about 2 hours or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together flour, melted butter, sugar, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt until crumbly. Set aside.

Shape the Dough

Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.

Second Rise

Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for another hour. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).

Add the Crumb Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the lemon zest crumb topping over the dough. Bake for 30-45 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 90°C (194°F).

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade Blueberry Lemon Sourdough!

Storage Tips

To keep your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough fresh, store it in a cool, dry place. A bread box or a paper bag works well to maintain its crusty exterior while keeping the inside soft. If you plan to enjoy it over several days, consider slicing the bread and freezing individual pieces. This way, you can toast a slice whenever you crave it, preserving its flavor and texture.

If you notice the bread becoming stale, don’t worry! Revive your slices by lightly toasting them or warming them in the oven for a few minutes. This will bring back some of the original freshness, allowing you to enjoy it for longer.

Variations to Try

While this recipe shines with blueberries and lemon, don’t hesitate to experiment with other fruits and flavors. Raspberries or blackberries can be substituted for blueberries, offering a different twist while maintaining the same deliciousness. You might also consider adding a hint of lavender or rosemary for an aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with the lemon.

For those who prefer a sweeter loaf, incorporating a swirl of lemon curd or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar in the dough can add an exciting layer of flavor. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I know when my sourdough is ready to bake?

The dough should have risen significantly and feel puffy. You can also do the poke test: gently poke the dough, and if it springs back slowly, it's ready.

→ Can I make this recipe without a sourdough starter?

You can use commercial yeast, but the flavor will differ. Adjust the yeast quantity accordingly.

→ How should I store the leftover bread?

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