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: 1 cup active sourdough starter; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup lukewarm water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Soft Ideas

I recently experimented with a delightful twist on traditional sourdough, and I must say, Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread has turned into my new favorite. The burst of fresh blueberries combined with the bright zest of lemon creates a refreshing flavor that's perfect for breakfast or a snack. As I let the dough rise, the aroma filled my kitchen, making it hard to wait until it was ready to bake. Trust me, the combination of tangy and sweet in this loaf is absolutely irresistible.

Created by

Kendra Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:09:34.581Z

After trying my hand at sourdough for the first time, I discovered that adding blueberries and lemon zest transformed it into something truly special. I love how the blueberries create pockets of sweetness amidst the tangy bread. I suggest using fresh blueberries for the best results, as frozen ones can add too much moisture and alter the texture.

My method of incorporating the blueberries involves gently folding them into the dough during the second rise to avoid crushing them. This way, every slice reveals whole berries bursting with flavor. It’s a playful, colorful bread that impresses at any gathering. You won't believe how easy it is to make!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon
The satisfaction of homemade sourdough with minimal effort
A versatile bread that shines as a breakfast treat or dessert

Understanding Your Ingredients

The key to a great Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread lies in the quality of your ingredients. Fresh blueberries provide bursts of juiciness that contrast beautifully with the zesty lemon. When using frozen blueberries, be aware that they can release more moisture, which may affect the dough's consistency. Make sure to drain any excess liquid and consider using a little less water in the dough to compensate.

Your sourdough starter is equally crucial—it should be active and bubbly before you begin. This ensures that the yeast is alive and ready to create that delightful rise. If your starter has been stored in the fridge, feed it and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before using it in this recipe to optimize its effectiveness.

Perfecting Dough Texture

Kneading the dough is a vital step in developing gluten, which gives your bread its structure. When kneading for about 10 minutes, aim for the dough to become smooth and elastic, a sign that gluten has formed properly. If your dough feels too sticky, you can sprinkle a touch more flour during kneading, but be cautious not to add too much, as this can lead to denser bread.

During the first rise, the dough should double in size, which typically takes around 6 hours. Factors like room temperature can influence this—if your kitchen is warmer, it may rise more quickly. Keep an eye on the dough; it should puff up and look airy, indicating it’s ready for the next step.

Baking and Beyond

As you prepare to bake, preheating the oven to 450°F (230°C) is critical. This high temperature helps achieve a lovely crust while keeping the inside soft and airy. For extra steam, consider placing a shallow pan of water at the bottom of the oven during the first 10 minutes of baking. This can help create an even more desirable crust.

Once the bread is baked to a golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped, allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This resting period is essential as it lets the steam escape and the bread set properly. If you can resist the temptation, letting it cool for at least 30 minutes will yield better slices and enhanced flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delightful loaf:

Sourdough Starter:

1 cup active sourdough starter

For the Dough:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup lukewarm water
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
1 cup fresh blueberries

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread:

Mix the Dough

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

Knead the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 6 hours or until doubled.

Incorporate Blueberries

Gently push down the dough and fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

Second Rise

Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another 2 hours.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

Bake

Bake the bread for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Enjoy your freshly baked Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread!

Pro Tips

Serve with butter or cream cheese for an added layer of flavor. This bread also freezes well—just wrap it tightly in cling film once cooled.

Storage Tips

To maintain freshness, store your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider slicing the bread and freezing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and makes for quick, delightful toast whenever the craving hits.

If you choose to refrigerate the bread, be aware that it may dry out. To rehydrate, a quick blast in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 10 seconds can help restore moisture before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This bread shines not only as a stand-alone snack but also pairs beautifully with spreads. Cream cheese, lemon curd, or a simple butter enhance the flavors exquisitely, creating a delightful breakfast or afternoon treat. You can also toast the slices lightly to add a crunchy texture before adding your favorite toppings.

For a fun twist, consider making French toast using slices of this sourdough. The combination of blueberries and lemon zest in the bread will impart delicious flavors that elevate the traditional recipe. Serve it with maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or fresh berries for a brunch that impresses your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fruit?

Yes! Raspberries or chopped strawberries will also work wonderfully in this recipe.

→ How do I store the bread?

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

→ What should I do if my dough isn't rising?

Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly. If it’s too cold, find a warm spot for it to rise.

→ Can I make this recipe with whole wheat flour?

Yes! You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.