Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread Easy Method

Name: Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread Easy Method
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sourdough starter, active; 1/2 cup water; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/2 cup fresh blueberries; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar

Highlighted under: Express Plate Creations

I absolutely love baking breads, and this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread has become one of my favorites. The combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries creates a delightful flavor profile that perfectly complements the sourdough base. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for those new to sourdough. With just a few steps, you can enjoy a beautifully textured loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to bake it again and again!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-01-22T10:34:17.502Z

When I first tried making Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread, I was enchanted by the bright flavors and the delightful aroma that filled my kitchen. The magic began when I realized that the addition of lemon zest and blueberries not only elevates the taste but also adds a stunning visual appeal. This method works well because the blueberries burst during baking, releasing their juices into the bread for a sweet surprise.

I found that keeping the dough slightly hydrated creates a tender crumb, which is perfect for capturing the duo of flavors. If you're looking for tips, be sure to use fresh blueberries and watch your dough rise in a warm area. It makes a world of difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor combining with juicy blueberries
A unique texture that balances being crusty yet soft within
An impressive loaf that's perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of any great sourdough bread lies in the quality of its ingredients. For this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread, using an active sourdough starter is crucial. It should be bubbly and have a pleasant aroma. This ensures proper fermentation, resulting in a well-risen loaf with the characteristic sour flavor. When selecting blueberries, fresh and ripe ones will provide the best flavor and juiciness, enhancing the overall taste of the bread.

Lemon zest adds a bright, zesty flavor that infuses the bread with a citrusy aroma. It’s important to use organic lemons if possible since they are unwaxed and free from pesticides, ensuring that the zest is safe to use. If fresh lemons are hard to come by, you can substitute with high-quality bottled lemon zest; however, fresh is always best for that vibrant flavor. The balance of sugar helps to lightly sweeten the dough and aids in creating a perfect crust during baking.

Techniques for Perfecting Your Sourdough

Mixing the dough properly is essential for the development of gluten, which contributes to the bread's structure. When combining the ingredients, aim for a shaggy dough without over mixing. You can use a wooden spoon or your hands for a more tactile experience. If the dough feels too sticky, a sprinkle more flour can help, but be cautious not to add too much, as it can hinder the bread's rise.

During the rising phases, temperature plays a crucial role. Ideally, the dough should rise in a warm, draft-free environment, around 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C). If your kitchen is chilly, consider placing the bowl in an oven with the light on or near a warm appliance. You want to look for the dough to rise until doubled, which can take between 1-2 hours for the first rise, depending on the ambient temperature.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sourdough starter, active
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/2 cup fresh blueberries
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar

Enjoy your baking!

Instructions

Instructions:

Mix the Dough

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

Add Blueberries

Gently fold in the blueberries. Be careful not to smash them, so you maintain their shape.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Loaf

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan.

Second Rise

Cover the loaf again and let it rise for another hour.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice it once completely cool, and enjoy!

Happy Baking!

Pro Tips

For extra flair, consider drizzling a lemon glaze over the bread once cooled. It adds sweetness and a lovely shine.

Storage and Enjoyment

Storing your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread properly will help maintain its flavor and texture. After cooling, wrap the loaf in a kitchen towel or place it in a bread bag. This will keep the crust crusty while preventing it from drying out. It’s best enjoyed within a few days, but if you need to store it longer, consider slicing the bread and freezing individual pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen slices, simply toast them in a toaster or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. The bread will retain its delightful texture and flavor after thawing. Pair with butter or a cream cheese spread to enhance the taste and enjoy a gourmet breakfast or snack.

Variations to Try

To switch things up and experiment, consider substituting different fruits for blueberries. Raspberries and blackberries both offer complementary flavors that work beautifully with the lemon. If you prefer a nutty element, adding walnuts or almonds can introduce a pleasant crunch and additional flavor complexity. For a twist on flavor, you might also add poppy seeds which combine wonderfully with lemon.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend can be used. Just remember that gluten-free bread may require additional binding agents, like xanthan gum, to help with rise and structure. This way, those with dietary restrictions can still enjoy the delightful taste of lemon and blueberries in a sourdough form.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding to the dough.

→ How do I store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

→ What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?

You can use bread flour, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ Is it necessary to use a sourdough starter?

Yes, the sourdough starter is essential for the rise and flavor profile of this recipe.