Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Streusel Topping
Highlighted under: Seasonal Recipe Collection
Delight in the zesty and fruity flavors of this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread topped with a crunchy streusel. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack!
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Streusel Topping is a delightful combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, encapsulated in a soft, crusty bread. The streusel topping adds a delightful crunch, making it a perfect companion for your morning coffee or tea.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The vibrant flavors of lemon and blueberry create a refreshing taste experience.
- The sourdough base gives it a unique texture and depth of flavor.
- The crunchy streusel topping adds a delightful contrast to the soft bread.
A Perfect Blend of Flavors
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread is a delightful marriage of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries, creating a flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. The bright citrus notes from the lemon zest elevate the natural sweetness of the blueberries, making each bite a burst of flavor. This bread is not just a treat for the taste buds; it also adds a vibrant touch to your breakfast table or afternoon tea.
The sourdough base of this recipe plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor. The natural fermentation process involved in sourdough baking allows for a depth of flavor that is hard to replicate with conventional bread. As the dough rises, it develops a complex taste that beautifully complements the fruity elements of the recipe. Whether enjoyed plain or toasted, the unique sourdough flavor will keep you coming back for more.
The Crunchy Streusel Topping
One of the standout features of this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is the crunchy streusel topping. This simple yet effective addition transforms the bread from ordinary to extraordinary. Made with a blend of flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon, the streusel creates a delightful contrast to the soft, fluffy interior of the bread. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch that enhances the overall texture of the loaf.
The streusel topping not only adds texture but also a hint of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the tartness of the lemon and the juiciness of the blueberries. It’s the perfect finishing touch that makes this bread an appealing choice for gatherings or special occasions. Plus, the aroma of the cinnamon as it bakes fills your kitchen with warmth, inviting everyone to enjoy a slice or two.
Tips for Success
For best results, ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before beginning this recipe. A well-fed starter not only helps the bread rise but also contributes to its flavor. If you're new to sourdough baking, consider feeding your starter the night before to guarantee it's at its peak when you're ready to bake.
When folding in the blueberries, be gentle to avoid breaking them and turning your dough purple. If you'd like, you can toss the blueberries in a bit of flour before adding them to the dough to help prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking. This simple step ensures that they remain evenly distributed throughout the loaf.
Ingredients
For the Sourdough Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Combine the ingredients to create a delicious bread you won't forget!
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Stir in the flour, salt, and lemon zest until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
Add Blueberries
Gently fold in the fresh blueberries into the dough. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Make the Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly. Set aside.
Shape and Prep for Baking
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a loaf. Place the shaped dough in a greased loaf pan and top with the streusel mixture. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
Serve this bread warm or at room temperature to enjoy its full flavor!
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm, straight from the oven, with a pat of butter for a comforting treat. Alternatively, slice it thin and toast it for a crunchy breakfast option. Pair it with a dollop of cream cheese or a drizzle of honey for an extra layer of flavor.
If you're looking to elevate your brunch spread, consider serving this bread alongside fresh fruit and yogurt. The combination of flavors will not only impress your guests but also provide a balanced and satisfying meal.
Storing Your Bread
To keep your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay delicious for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. This will help preserve its flavor and texture.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the bread at room temperature or pop it in the toaster for a quick reheat. You'll find that it retains its delightful taste and texture, making it a perfect option for future breakfasts or snacks.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can experiment with different fruits, like raspberries or blackberries, to give a unique twist to your sourdough. If you prefer a less tart flavor, try adding white chocolate chips or a splash of vanilla extract to the dough for added sweetness.
Another fun variation is to incorporate nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the streusel topping. This addition will not only enhance the flavor but also provide a satisfying crunch. Customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences and make it your own!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just be sure to fold them in gently to prevent the dough from turning blue.
→ How do I store the bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter in the streusel topping with a plant-based alternative.
→ What can I use as a sourdough starter?
You can use homemade sourdough starter or store-bought sourdough starter for this recipe.
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Streusel Topping
Delight in the zesty and fruity flavors of this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread topped with a crunchy streusel. Perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack!
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Seasonal Recipe Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Stir in the flour, salt, and lemon zest until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
Gently fold in the fresh blueberries into the dough. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly. Set aside.
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a loaf. Place the shaped dough in a greased loaf pan and top with the streusel mixture. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 6g