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Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread

This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread is bright, tangy, and soft, combining fresh lemons and blueberries with a mild sourdough flavor, perfect for breakfast or a light snack.
Prep Time 6 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 400 g strong white bread flour (with at least 12.5% protein content)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp caster sugar
  • 240 ml water
  • 160 g active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
  • 150 g fresh blueberries Use fresh, cold blueberries to help them hold shape.
  • zest of 2 lemons Use lemon zest, not the pith, for bright flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Feed your starter early so it is active by mixing time. Let it double.
  2. Mix flour and water until no dry flour remains. Rest for 30–45 minutes to help gluten form.
  3. Add the active starter, sugar, and salt to the autolysed mix. Mix until combined. Use a gentle fold or knead until the dough is smooth but not tight.
  4. Let the dough rest at room temperature for 3–4 hours. Every 30 minutes for the first 2 hours do a set of coil folds or stretch-and-folds to build strength.
  5. Gently spread the dough on a lightly floured surface. Scatter lemon zest and blueberries over the dough. Fold the dough over them and roll or fold a few times to distribute the fruit without smashing it. Finish bulk fermentation until the dough rises about 30–50% and feels airy.
  6. Shape the dough into a tight boule or batard. Place it in a floured banneton or bowl. Cover and put in the fridge for 12–18 hours.
  7. Preheat your oven to 230°C (450°F) with a Dutch oven inside. Take the dough from the fridge, turn it onto baking paper, and score the top with a sharp blade.
  8. Place the dough in the hot Dutch oven. Bake covered for 20 minutes. Remove the lid and bake 15–25 minutes more until the crust is deep golden.
  9. Cool on a rack for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Notes

Serve slices at room temperature. A light spread of butter or cream cheese works well. Store at room temperature in a bread bag or wrapped in a tea towel for up to 2 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze in an airtight bag for up to 3 months.