Fresh Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Artisan Loaf

Name: Fresh Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Artisan Loaf
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly); 1 cup warm water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup fresh blueberries; Additional blueberries for decoration; Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites

This Fresh Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Artisan Loaf combines the tangy zest of lemon with the sweetness of fresh blueberries, resulting in a deliciously unique bread that's perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2025-12-25T22:22:28.598Z

This artisan loaf is inspired by the fresh flavors of summer. The combination of blueberries and lemon creates a refreshing taste that pairs beautifully with butter or cream cheese. Perfect for picnics or brunch gatherings, this bread is sure to impress your friends and family.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with fresh blueberry flavor and a hint of lemon zest
Crispy crust with a soft and chewy interior
Perfect for toasting or enjoying fresh out of the oven

      

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

This Fresh Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Artisan Loaf is a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The sweet, juicy blueberries provide a burst of fruity goodness, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the bread to a whole new level. Together, they create a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting, making this loaf an ideal choice for any occasion.

Whether you're enjoying a quiet morning at home or hosting a brunch with friends, this bread is sure to impress. The combination of flavors is not only delicious but also visually appealing, as the vibrant blueberries stand out against the golden crust. Each slice reveals a stunning swirl of fruit and zesty goodness, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

The Art of Sourdough Baking

Baking with sourdough is an age-old tradition that brings a wealth of flavor and texture to bread. The natural fermentation process enhances the bread's taste while also improving its nutritional profile. Sourdough bread is easier to digest and has a lower glycemic index compared to traditional yeast breads. This makes it not just a delicious choice but also a healthier option for bread lovers.

In this recipe, the sourdough starter plays a crucial role in creating a light and airy loaf. It helps develop the gluten structure, resulting in a chewy interior paired with a crispy crust. The fermentation process also adds a subtle tanginess that complements the sweetness of the blueberries and the brightness of the lemon, creating a harmonious balance.

Tips for Perfecting Your Loaf

To achieve the best results, it's essential to ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before beginning. This will help your dough rise properly and develop that signature sourdough flavor. If you're unsure, conduct a 'float test' by dropping a spoonful of the starter in a glass of water; if it floats, it's ready to use!

Another tip is to be gentle when folding in the blueberries. This way, you can prevent them from breaking apart and turning the dough purple. Additionally, using fresh blueberries will provide the best flavor and texture. Frozen blueberries tend to release more moisture, which can affect the consistency of the dough.

Ingredients

For the Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
1 cup warm water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
1 cup fresh blueberries

For the Topping

Additional blueberries for decoration
Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Mixing the blueberries and lemon zest into the dough gives this loaf a vibrant color and flavor that is simply irresistible.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sourdough starter, warm water, salt, sugar, and lemon zest. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Loaf

Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Final Rise

Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rise for another 1 hour.

Preheat the Oven

During the last 30 minutes of rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Bake the Loaf

Before baking, sprinkle the top with coarse sea salt and additional blueberries. Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy toasted with butter or on its own!

This artisan loaf can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days, or sliced and frozen for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

This Fresh Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Artisan Loaf is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a delightful breakfast, serve it toasted with a spread of creamy butter or a dollop of lemon curd. The combination of warm bread and tangy lemon spreads creates a perfect morning treat that will brighten your day.

For an afternoon snack, consider pairing slices of this artisan loaf with a cup of herbal tea or coffee. The delightful flavors of blueberry and lemon complement the soothing notes of tea, making for a refreshing break. You can also serve it as part of a charcuterie board, showcasing its unique flavors alongside cheeses, nuts, and fresh fruits.

Storing Your Bread

To keep your Fresh Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Artisan Loaf fresh, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. This will help maintain its crusty exterior while keeping the interior soft. Avoid storing the bread in plastic, as this can create moisture and lead to a soggy loaf.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Once the loaf has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore its fresh-baked quality.

Variations to Try

While this recipe celebrates the delightful combination of blueberries and lemon, feel free to experiment with other fruits! Raspberries, strawberries, or even dried cranberries can add a different twist to your loaf. Just remember to adjust the sugar level based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.

For an added layer of flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. They not only provide a satisfying crunch but also enhance the overall texture of the bread. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also be added for an extra depth of flavor, making your bread a true standout at any gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but they may release more moisture into the dough. If using frozen, do not thaw them before adding.

→ What should I do if my dough doesn't rise?

Ensure your sourdough starter is active. If not, let the dough rest longer in a warm place.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. The texture may vary slightly.

→ How can I enhance the lemon flavor?

Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the dough for an extra citrus kick.