Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Brown Sugar Topping

Name: Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Brown Sugar Topping
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly); 1 cup warm water; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Fresh & Healthy Plates

Enjoy the delightful combination of tart blueberries and zesty lemon in this unique sourdough bread topped with a sweet brown sugar crust.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2025-12-27T17:38:27.594Z

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Brown Sugar Topping is a delightful way to enjoy the tangy flavors of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon. The sourdough base provides a chewy texture while the brown sugar topping adds a caramelized sweetness that perfectly complements the bread.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
A unique twist on traditional sourdough bread.
Great for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.

      

The Joy of Baking with Sourdough

Baking with sourdough is not only a rewarding experience but also a great way to connect with the art of bread-making. This fermented dough offers unique flavors and textures that are difficult to achieve with commercial yeast. By using an active sourdough starter, you allow the natural yeast and bacteria to create a complex, tangy flavor profile that elevates any bread, including this delightful Blueberry Lemon Sourdough.

As you mix and knead the dough, you'll notice how it transforms from a sticky mixture into a smooth and elastic ball. This physical change is not just satisfying; it is also essential for developing the gluten structure that gives sourdough its characteristic chewiness. Plus, the process of nurturing your starter and watching it grow is a beautiful metaphor for patience and care in our lives.

Balancing Flavors: Sweet and Tart

The combination of blueberries and lemon zest in this recipe creates a delightful contrast of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Blueberries bring a natural sweetness and juicy burst, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus note that brightens the overall flavor. This balance makes the bread versatile enough to be enjoyed alone or paired with various spreads.

Imagine waking up to the aroma of freshly baked sourdough bread infused with the scent of citrus. Slicing into this loaf and revealing the vibrant blueberries is a feast for the senses, making it a perfect centerpiece for brunch. Whether topped with butter or served alongside yogurt, this bread is sure to impress your family and friends.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is not just a treat for breakfast; it can also be a delightful dessert or a satisfying snack. Its sweet brown sugar topping adds an extra layer of indulgence, making it perfect for those afternoons when you crave something special. Simply slice a piece, brew a cup of coffee, and relish the moment.

Additionally, this bread keeps well, allowing you to enjoy it over several days. You can toast slices for a quick breakfast or serve them with a dollop of cream cheese for an afternoon delight. The versatility of this sourdough makes it an excellent choice for gatherings, ensuring that everyone will find something to love.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious blueberry lemon sourdough.

For the Sourdough Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
1 cup warm water
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons sugar

For the Brown Sugar Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your blueberry lemon sourdough.

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a sticky dough forms. Fold in the blueberries and lemon zest.

Knead and Rise

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

Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. After the second rise, sprinkle the topping evenly over the loaf.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 35-45 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Let it cool before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade blueberry lemon sourdough with a cup of tea or coffee!

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with this Blueberry Lemon Sourdough, ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before you begin. This means feeding it at least a few hours before baking. A well-fed starter will help your bread rise beautifully and provide the tangy flavor that sourdough is known for.

When kneading the dough, don't rush the process. Take your time to develop the gluten, as this will create a better texture. If the dough feels overly sticky, you can lightly flour your hands or the work surface, but avoid adding too much flour, as it can affect the final product.

Storing Your Sourdough Bread

Once your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is baked and cooled, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness. Store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months.

To enjoy frozen bread, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. You can also pop slices in the toaster for a warm, crispy treat that brings back the fresh-baked aroma as if it just came out of the oven.

Experimenting with Flavors

One of the joys of baking is the opportunity to experiment with flavors. While this recipe features blueberries and lemon, feel free to try other fruits like raspberries or blackberries. You can also adjust the citrus component by adding orange zest for a different twist.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor further, consider adding spices like nutmeg or allspice to the dough, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture. Each variation will provide a unique take on this beautiful sourdough loaf, making it a fun project for both novice and seasoned bakers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but do not thaw them before adding to the dough.

→ How should I store the sourdough bread?

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

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary.

→ What can I serve with this bread?

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