Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Vanilla Bean

Name: Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Vanilla Bean
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 3 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 500g bread flour; 300g water; 100g active sourdough starter; 10g salt; Zest of 1 lemon; 150g fresh blueberries; 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped

Highlighted under: Tasty Treat Recipes

Experience the delightful combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries in this unique sourdough bread, enhanced with the aromatic essence of vanilla bean.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-27T17:54:27.798Z

This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Vanilla Bean is a perfect blend of flavors that will brighten your mornings. The tangy lemon zest and juicy blueberries complement the sourdough's natural acidity, while the vanilla bean adds a touch of luxury.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and refreshing flavors that awaken your palate
The perfect balance of sweet and tart in every slice
A delightful addition to your breakfast table or brunch gatherings

      

A Unique Twist on Traditional Sourdough

Sourdough bread is beloved for its rich flavor and chewy texture, but adding ingredients like lemon and blueberries elevates it to new heights. The tangy notes from the lemon zest perfectly complement the natural sweetness of the blueberries, creating a harmonious balance. This recipe not only pays homage to traditional sourdough methods but also introduces a refreshing twist that will impress anyone who takes a bite.

Using a vanilla bean adds an aromatic layer that enhances the overall flavor profile of the bread. It brings warmth and depth, making each slice a delightful experience. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe will inspire you to explore the endless possibilities of sourdough baking.

Benefits of Using Fresh Ingredients

Incorporating fresh blueberries and lemon zest into your sourdough not only enhances flavor but also adds nutritional benefits. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making your bread a healthier option for breakfast or snacks. Meanwhile, the lemon zest provides a burst of vitamin C and invigorating aroma that elevates the bread's appeal.

Opting for high-quality ingredients ensures that your sourdough will taste exceptional. Fresh blueberries burst with juice and flavor, while the zest of a lemon adds a refreshing brightness that is hard to replicate with artificial flavors. By prioritizing freshness, you’re not only enhancing the taste but also the overall quality of your baked goods.

Perfect Pairings for Your Sourdough

Once your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Vanilla Bean is baked and cooled, it opens up a world of pairing possibilities. This bread is perfect for breakfast, toasted with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey. For a more indulgent treat, try spreading cream cheese or mascarpone on top for a creamy contrast to the fruity flavors.

At brunch gatherings, serve this delightful sourdough alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait. The combination of flavors will have your guests raving about your baking skills. Additionally, a cup of herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade pairs beautifully, enhancing the citrusy notes of the bread.

Ingredients

For the Sourdough

500g bread flour
300g water
100g active sourdough starter
10g salt
Zest of 1 lemon
150g fresh blueberries
1 vanilla bean, split and scraped

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Instructions

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the bread flour, water, and sourdough starter. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Add the salt, lemon zest, and vanilla beans, then mix until incorporated.

Bulk Fermentation

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it ferment at room temperature for about 2 hours, performing stretch and folds every 30 minutes.

Add Blueberries

Gently fold in the fresh blueberries into the dough after the bulk fermentation is complete.

Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place it seam side up in a floured proofing basket.

Final Proof

Cover the dough and let it proof for another 1-2 hours at room temperature, or in the fridge overnight for enhanced flavor.

Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Carefully place the dough into a preheated Dutch oven and cover. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delightful Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Vanilla Bean!

For best results, allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its texture.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and placing it in the freezer. This way, you can enjoy your delicious bread weeks later without sacrificing flavor or texture.

When ready to enjoy frozen sourdough, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the toaster for a quick warm-up. This method revitalizes the bread, making it taste freshly baked. Keeping your sourdough properly stored ensures you can savor its delightful flavors anytime.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Baking sourdough can sometimes be unpredictable. If your bread is too dense, it could be due to insufficient fermentation or not enough moisture in the dough. Make sure to allow adequate time for bulk fermentation and consider adding a bit more water if your dough feels too stiff during mixing.

Another common issue is the bread not rising properly. This could be because of an inactive starter. Always ensure your sourdough starter is bubbly and active before beginning. A little patience and practice will help you perfect your technique and achieve that perfect rise every baker dreams of.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries can be used, but do not thaw them before adding to the dough to prevent excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute the vanilla bean?

You can use vanilla extract as a substitute; however, the flavor might not be as strong.

→ What can I serve with this bread?

This bread pairs wonderfully with butter, cream cheese, or as toast with jelly.