Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lemon Glaze

Name: Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lemon Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 cups bread flour; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups water; 1 cup active sourdough starter; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh blueberries; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights

This delightful Blueberry Lemon Sourdough combines the tanginess of fresh lemons with juicy blueberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Topped with a zesty lemon glaze, it's a treat that's sure to impress.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-12-27T21:22:27.876Z

The journey to this Blueberry Lemon Sourdough started with a love for both sourdough bread and the fresh flavors of summer. When blueberries are in season, there's nothing quite like incorporating them into a loaf of sourdough. The addition of lemon zest not only brightens the flavor but also adds a refreshing twist that complements the sweetness of the berries.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh blueberries bursting with flavor in every bite
Tangy lemon glaze adds a delightful sweetness
Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart

      

The Perfect Pairing of Blueberries and Lemons

Blueberries and lemons are a classic pairing that brings together the best of both worlds. The sweetness of ripe blueberries contrasts beautifully with the bright, zesty notes of fresh lemon, creating a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds. In this recipe, the juicy blueberries not only add bursts of flavor but also a lovely color that enhances the visual appeal of the sourdough. Each slice promises a delightful experience, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack.

Moreover, blueberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this bread not just a treat but also a nutritious option. Their natural sweetness allows you to reduce the amount of added sugar without sacrificing flavor. Combined with the tang of lemon, this sourdough not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides a refreshing twist that makes it stand out from traditional bread recipes.

The Art of Sourdough Baking

Baking sourdough is an art that requires patience and practice, but the results are incredibly rewarding. The fermentation process, driven by your active sourdough starter, develops complex flavors and a unique texture that is hard to replicate with commercial yeast. This recipe allows you to embrace the natural leavening process while infusing it with the fresh flavors of blueberry and lemon.

One key tip for successful sourdough is to ensure that your starter is active and bubbly before you begin. This will help your dough rise properly and develop that characteristic sourdough flavor. Keep an eye on the temperature of your environment as well; warmer areas will speed up fermentation, while cooler settings will slow it down. Learning to read your dough and adjust accordingly is part of the joy of sourdough baking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a delightful breakfast, toast slices and spread a bit of butter or cream cheese on top. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert treat. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee, and you have a perfect combination for a cozy afternoon.

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding other ingredients. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch, while herbs such as rosemary can introduce an unexpected flavor twist. Additionally, you can substitute other berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create your unique variation. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

For the Sourdough

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

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon

Mix and match the ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the active sourdough starter with water. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Fold in the lemon zest and blueberries.

Knead and Rise

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.

Shape and Second Rise

Once risen, gently deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover, and allow it to rise for another 30-45 minutes.

Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for about 40 minutes or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Make the Lemon Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled sourdough loaf.

Let the glaze set before slicing for best results.

Why Sourdough?

Sourdough bread has gained immense popularity not only for its unique flavor but also for its health benefits. The fermentation process used in sourdough baking breaks down gluten, making it easier to digest for some people. Additionally, the low pH created during fermentation can help regulate blood sugar levels, making sourdough a more health-conscious choice compared to regular bread.

Moreover, sourdough is a sustainable option for home bakers. By nurturing a sourdough starter, you engage in a process that connects you with traditional baking methods. This connection to the past, combined with the satisfaction of creating a beautiful loaf from scratch, enhances the experience of baking.

Storage Tips

To keep your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough fresh, store it in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature. This helps maintain its crusty exterior while keeping the inside soft. If you plan to keep it for more than a couple of days, consider freezing it. Slice the loaf before freezing so you can easily toast individual pieces as needed.

When ready to enjoy, simply let the slices thaw at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a quick and easy snack. This bread also makes excellent French toast if you have leftover slices, transforming it into a delicious brunch option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough.

→ How do I store the sourdough?

Store the sourdough in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can try a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary. Make sure the flour is suitable for bread making.

→ What can I substitute for sourdough starter?

You can use a store-bought yeast or a quick bread recipe, but the flavor profile will be different.