Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lemon Zest Crumb

Name: Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lemon Zest Crumb
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sourdough starter, active; 3/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed; Zest of 1 lemon; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Seasonal Recipe Collection

Enjoy the delightful combination of tangy blueberries and zesty lemon in this unique sourdough bread, topped with a crunchy lemon zest crumb.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-25T22:50:27.605Z

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lemon Zest Crumb is a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch table. The tangy flavors of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon come together in a tender sourdough loaf that is simply irresistible.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors
A beautiful, artisan loaf that impresses everyone
The crunchy lemon zest crumb adds a delightful texture

      

The Flavor Profile

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is a celebration of flavor, combining the natural sweetness of fresh blueberries with the bright acidity of lemon. Each bite offers a delightful contrast, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The tangy blueberries burst with juiciness, while the lemon juice and zest elevate the overall taste, providing a refreshing zing that lingers on the palate.

The fermentation process of sourdough adds an underlying complexity to the bread, enhancing the flavor profile further. The natural tanginess from the sourdough starter harmonizes beautifully with the fruity notes of the blueberries and the citrusy brightness of the lemon. This unique combination makes it not just a loaf of bread, but an experience for your taste buds.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This artisanal loaf is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special event, or simply enjoying a quiet morning at home, this Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is sure to impress. Its vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it a showstopper on any table.

Moreover, it’s a fantastic option for gifting. Imagine giving a beautifully baked loaf to friends or family, paired with a jar of homemade jam or a selection of gourmet cheeses. It’s a thoughtful gesture that showcases your baking skills and adds a personal touch to any occasion.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To maintain the freshness of your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature or gently reheat it in the oven for a few minutes.

For serving, this bread pairs wonderfully with a spread of creamy butter or a drizzle of honey. You can also enjoy it toasted, topped with fresh ricotta and additional blueberries for an indulgent treat. The options are endless, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Sourdough Bread

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

For the Lemon Zest Crumb

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
Zest of 1 lemon
Pinch of salt

Make sure to use fresh blueberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sourdough starter, water, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Add the blueberries, lemon juice, and lemon zest, folding gently to incorporate.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise at room temperature for about 4-6 hours, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Loaf

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a floured proofing basket and let rise for another 1-2 hours.

Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cold butter, lemon zest, and salt. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.

Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a Dutch oven inside to heat up. Once hot, carefully remove the Dutch oven, and transfer the loaf into it.

Sprinkle the lemon zest crumb on top. Cover and bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!

For best results, allow the bread to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough, ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before use. This will give your bread the rise it needs for a light, airy texture. Additionally, gently fold in the blueberries to prevent them from bursting, which can create a messy dough.

If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to your liking. Experimenting with the quantities will help you find the perfect balance that suits your taste.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delightful as is, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch, or incorporating other fruits like raspberries or blackberries for a mixed berry version. Each variation brings its own unique twist to the classic recipe.

For a more decadent treat, try adding a cream cheese filling or a lemon glaze on top after baking. This will elevate your sourdough to a whole new level of deliciousness, making it an irresistible choice for gatherings or special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but be sure to add them directly from the freezer to prevent them from becoming mushy.

→ How do I store the sourdough bread?

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

→ Can I make this bread without a sourdough starter?

This recipe is designed for a sourdough starter. If you don't have one, you can try using a commercial yeast recipe instead.

→ What can I serve with this bread?

This sourdough is delicious on its own or served with butter, cream cheese, or a fruit spread.