Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Streusel Topping
Highlighted under: Treats & Confections
A delightful combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, this sourdough bread topped with a crunchy streusel is perfect for breakfast or dessert.
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Streusel Topping is a perfect way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer. The bright citrus notes from the lemon complement the juicy blueberries, while the sourdough provides a unique depth of flavor. The addition of a crunchy streusel topping adds a delightful texture to each slice.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing lemon flavor balanced with sweet blueberries
- The chewy texture of sourdough paired with a crunchy streusel topping
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat any time of day
The Joy of Sourdough
Sourdough bread has a unique and complex flavor profile that elevates any dish it accompanies. The natural fermentation process not only enhances the taste but also increases the nutritional benefits. This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough leverages the tangy notes of sourdough, complementing the bright acidity of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries. Each bite offers a delightful contrast, making it an ideal choice for both breakfast and dessert.
Moreover, baking with sourdough allows for a more forgiving process. Thanks to the active cultures, the dough is more resilient and can withstand minor variations in technique or timing. This makes it accessible to bakers of all skill levels, inviting everyone to experience the joy of sourdough baking in their own kitchens.
Lemon and Blueberry Harmony
Lemons and blueberries are a classic pairing, often found in desserts, jams, and beverages. The sharpness of lemon brightens the sweetness of blueberries, creating a balanced flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying. In this recipe, the lemon zest and juice enhance the bread's flavor, while the fresh blueberries add bursts of sweetness and juiciness with every bite.
Incorporating fresh ingredients into your baking not only elevates the flavor but also introduces natural colors and aromas that make the baking experience even more enjoyable. As the bread bakes, your kitchen will fill with a tantalizing fragrance that hints at the deliciousness to come.
Streusel Topping Perfection
The streusel topping adds a delightful crunch to the soft, chewy texture of the sourdough bread. Made with a simple blend of flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon, this topping not only enhances the visual appeal of the bread but also contributes a rich, caramelized flavor. Each bite is a perfect blend of textures, satisfying both the craving for something sweet and the need for a hearty breakfast or snack.
Streusel can be customized to suit your taste – feel free to add nuts, oats, or even spices like nutmeg for an extra kick. This versatility means you can enjoy variations of this recipe that cater to your personal preferences, ensuring that every loaf of Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is uniquely yours.
Ingredients
For the Sourdough Bread
- 2 cups bread flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Steps
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix together the bread flour, all-purpose flour, sourdough starter, warm water, sugar, and salt. Combine until a shaggy dough forms.
Incorporate Blueberries and Lemon
Gently fold in the blueberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice into the dough. Cover and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
Shape the Dough
After resting, turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a floured proofing basket.
Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.
Preheat Oven and Bake
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Once the oven is hot, place the loaf on a baking sheet and sprinkle the streusel topping over it. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown.
Let the bread cool before slicing to preserve its texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is incredibly versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. For a breakfast treat, consider toasting slices and spreading a pat of butter or cream cheese on top. The creamy texture complements the tangy and sweet flavors beautifully, making for a satisfying start to your day.
Alternatively, enjoy it as a mid-afternoon snack alongside a cup of tea or coffee. The balance of flavors is perfect for pairing with your favorite hot beverage, offering a moment of indulgence during your busy day.
Storage Tips
To keep your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, consider freezing slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a piece of homemade sourdough whenever the craving strikes.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices at room temperature or pop them in the toaster for a warm, crispy treat. This method ensures that each slice retains its delightful texture and flavor, making it feel as fresh as the day it was baked.
Baking Tips for Success
For the best results, ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before beginning. This will help your bread rise properly and develop that signature sourdough flavor. If you're unsure about your starter's readiness, perform the 'float test' by dropping a spoonful of starter in water; if it floats, it's ready to use.
Additionally, avoid overworking the dough once you've added the blueberries and lemon. Gently folding them in will help maintain the integrity of the fruit and prevent the dough from becoming tough. Remember, the key to great sourdough is patience — allow it to rise adequately for the best texture and flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to add them directly from the freezer without thawing.
→ How should I store the sourdough bread?
Store the bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
→ Can I make this recipe without a sourdough starter?
Unfortunately, sourdough starter is essential for this recipe. You can try a different bread recipe if you don't have one.
→ What can I serve with this bread?
This sourdough bread pairs well with butter, cream cheese, or even a fruit compote.
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Streusel Topping
A delightful combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, this sourdough bread topped with a crunchy streusel is perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Treats & Confections
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough Bread
- 2 cups bread flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mix together the bread flour, all-purpose flour, sourdough starter, warm water, sugar, and salt. Combine until a shaggy dough forms.
Gently fold in the blueberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice into the dough. Cover and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
After resting, turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a floured proofing basket.
In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Once the oven is hot, place the loaf on a baking sheet and sprinkle the streusel topping over it. Bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 6g