Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread

Name: Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 cups bread flour; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup active sourdough starter; 3/4 cup water; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon sugar

Highlighted under: Modern Kitchen

I recently made this Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread and it blew my mind! The combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries created a stunning flavor contrast that truly brightened my day. The texture was soft and chewy, thanks to the sourdough base, and the intoxicating aroma while it baked was simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed plain or with a smear of butter, this bread is a delightful treat for both breakfast and dessert. I can’t wait for you to try it; I'm sure it will become a favorite of yours too!

Created by

Rhiannon Sutherland

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:29:34.721Z

I love baking with sourdough because it brings a unique depth of flavor to breads. This particular recipe for Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread felt like a delightful journey into summer. After a few trials, I discovered that adding lemon zest not only enhances the flavor but also complements the blueberries beautifully, balancing sweetness with acidity.

The secret to getting that perfect rise is in the fermentation. Letting the dough rest longer allows the flavors to develop and the sourdough to work its magic. I recommend being patient during the proofing stages—it’s worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor combined with sweet blueberries
Perfectly chewy texture from the sourdough
Great for breakfast or as a delicious snack

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to this Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread lies in the balance between the ingredients. The active sourdough starter not only imparts a wonderful tangy flavor, but it also contributes to the bread's chewy texture. When measuring your starter, make sure it is bubbly and active for the best rise. If you're new to sourdough, remember that using a well-fed starter yields better fermentation and flavor development.

Lemon zest brings a vibrant aroma and brightness to each bite, enhancing the natural sweetness of the blueberries. Feel free to experiment with the amount of zest—if you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, adding a bit more won't hurt. Fresh blueberries are ideal for this recipe, but if you have frozen ones on hand, just be cautious; thaw and drain them before adding to avoid excess moisture in the dough.

Techniques for Success

Kneading and folding are crucial steps in developing gluten, which gives the bread its texture. Make sure to knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, which usually takes about 10 minutes. When incorporating the blueberries, gently fold them in to avoid crushing them, which can result in a dough that turns purple and loses its lovely blueberry pockets. Keep a light touch to maintain their shape and bursts of flavor.

Proofing the dough properly can significantly affect its final volume and texture. During the first rise, stretching and folding every 30 minutes helps create strength and structure, leading to a better loaf. If your kitchen feels cool, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm oven (with just the light on) to encourage fermentation. Watch for the dough to double in size during this process—this is a good indicator it’s ready for shaping.

Ingredients

For the Dough

2 cups bread flour
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup active sourdough starter
3/4 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
Zest of 1 lemon
1 cup fresh blueberries

For the Topping

1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, all-purpose flour, water, sourdough starter, sugar, lemon zest, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Knead and Fold

Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Incorporate the blueberries gently to maintain their shape. Let the dough rise for 2 hours, stretching and folding it every 30 minutes.

Shape and Proof

Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a well-floured proofing basket. Cover and let it proof for an additional hour.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to preheat for about 30 minutes.

Bake the Bread

Carefully transfer the dough to the hot Dutch oven. Mix lemon juice with sugar and drizzle over the dough. Bake for 30 minutes with the lid on, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Pro Tips

To keep the blueberries from sinking, toss them in a little flour before incorporating them into the dough. This will help distribute them evenly during baking.

Serving Suggestions

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread makes a fantastic breakfast option, especially when served warm with a dollop of cream cheese or a smear of butter. For a delightful brunch presentation, slice it thick and layer on your favorite spreads, or even some fresh lemon curd for an extra zing. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, elevating your morning routine.

Don’t forget this bread also shines as a snack! Toast slices for a quick afternoon treat or enjoy it with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar for a sweet dessert option. Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side transforms it into an indulgent dessert that is sure to impress.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To keep your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough Bread fresh, store it in a paper bag or a bread box at room temperature for up to three days. If you won't consume it quickly, consider slicing the bread and freezing individual pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag to keep them fresh. This way, you can enjoy just what you need without compromising flavor or texture.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen slices, simply toast them directly from the freezer. For best results, use a toaster or oven for even heating. Avoid the microwave as it may make the bread chewy rather than crusty. This method ensures you can savor that delicious blueberry and lemon flavor anytime you wish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but do not thaw them before using to prevent excess moisture in the dough.

→ How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom and have a golden-brown crust.

→ Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?

Yes, you can bake it on a baking sheet, but be sure to steam the oven by adding a pan of hot water at the bottom.

→ How should I store the bread?

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