Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Almond Topping

Name: Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Almond Topping
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 bread flour; 1 cup sourdough starter (active); 1 cup warm water; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1/4 cup sliced almonds; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon butter (melted); 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Ideas

This delightful Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is a perfect blend of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, topped with a crunchy almond layer.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-27T21:58:27.775Z

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The combination of blueberries and lemon zest brings a refreshing twist to traditional sourdough, while the almond topping adds a delightful crunch. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this recipe will surely impress your family and friends.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and refreshing flavors of lemon and blueberry
Crispy almond topping adds delightful texture
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is a delightful combination of tangy and sweet, making it an ideal addition to any meal. The bright citrus notes of lemon complement the juicy blueberries, creating a refreshing taste that dances on your palate. This bread is not only a feast for the taste buds but also visually appealing, with the vibrant colors of blueberries peeping through the golden crust.

Incorporating lemon zest into the dough elevates the flavor profile, giving you that distinct citrus aroma with every slice. The balance between the tartness of the lemon and the sweetness of the blueberries is what makes this sourdough truly special. It’s a perfect recipe to showcase seasonal produce, especially when fresh blueberries are in abundance.

A Crunchy Almond Topping

What sets this Blueberry Lemon Sourdough apart is the delightful almond topping. The combination of sliced almonds, sugar, and lemon juice creates a crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft, pillowy interior of the bread. This topping not only enhances the flavor but also adds a wonderful texture that makes every bite satisfying.

As the bread bakes, the almonds caramelize slightly, deepening their nutty flavor while providing a beautiful golden hue on top. This topping is not just for show; it adds extra nutritional value, offering healthy fats and protein, making your sourdough a wholesome choice for any time of day.

Versatile and Delicious

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a breakfast option, toasted with a bit of butter, or as a centerpiece for brunch accompanied by fresh fruit and yogurt. It also makes for a delightful snack throughout the day, keeping you energized and satisfied.

You can even get creative with this recipe! Consider adding other fruits like raspberries or strawberries for a mixed berry version. The lemon flavor pairs well with various fruits, allowing you to customize your sourdough to suit your taste or what you have on hand. The options are endless, making this recipe a staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Blueberry Lemon Sourdough:

For the Sourdough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup bread flour
1 cup sourdough starter (active)
1 cup warm water
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh blueberries

For the Almond Topping

1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon butter (melted)
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough:

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, mix the warm water, sourdough starter, and lemon zest. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.

Knead the Dough

Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Incorporate the fresh blueberries gently to avoid crushing them.

First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Prepare the Almond Topping

In a small bowl, mix the sliced almonds, sugar, melted butter, and lemon juice. Set aside.

Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan and let it rise again for about 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Add Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the almond topping over the risen dough. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Cool and Serve

Remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough!

Let the bread cool completely for the best slicing experience.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough turns out perfectly every time, it's crucial to use an active sourdough starter. A bubbly, well-fed starter will help the dough rise beautifully, resulting in a light and airy loaf. If your starter is sluggish, give it a feeding and let it sit at room temperature until bubbly before using it in the recipe.

When incorporating the blueberries, do so gently to prevent them from breaking apart. You want to maintain their shape for added texture and visual appeal. If you're worried about them sinking to the bottom, you can toss them in a bit of flour before adding them to the dough.

Storing Your Sourdough

Once your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container or a resealable bag at room temperature. This will keep the bread fresh for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider freezing it. Slice the bread before freezing, so you can take out only what you need, and enjoy it toasted straight from the freezer.

To refresh day-old bread, simply pop slices in the toaster or oven for a few minutes. This will restore its crusty exterior and warm, soft interior, bringing it back to life. Enjoy with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey for a delightful treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. However, make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I store the sourdough?

Store the sourdough in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

You can try using gluten-free flour, but the texture may differ. Consider adding a binding agent for better results.

→ What can I substitute for almonds?

You can substitute almonds with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.