Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Almond Topping
Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes
Savor the delightful blend of tangy blueberries and zesty lemon in this artisanal sourdough bread topped with a crunchy almond crust.
This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it an ideal breakfast or snack. The addition of almonds provides a wonderful crunch, elevating the flavor profile of this delightful bread.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright and refreshing flavors of blueberry and lemon
- Artisan-style crust with a soft, chewy interior
- Nutty almond topping adds a delightful crunch
The Perfect Harmony of Flavors
This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough bread brings together the sweet and tart notes of fresh blueberries with the bright zing of lemon. Each slice bursts with flavor, creating a delightful eating experience that can elevate any meal. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or as a complementary side to a savory dish, the unique combination of ingredients offers a refreshing twist on traditional sourdough.
The acidity from the lemon not only enhances the blueberries but also works harmoniously with the naturally tangy sourdough. This balance of flavors ensures that each bite is not only satisfying but also invigorating, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy a gourmet bread at home.
Artisan Craftsmanship at Home
Making sourdough bread at home is a rewarding process that allows you to create something truly special. By utilizing a sourdough starter, this recipe showcases the artisan craft of bread-making, giving you a loaf that has a depth of flavor and a chewy texture that is hard to replicate with store-bought options. The hands-on approach of kneading and shaping the dough adds to the joy of baking.
The addition of the almond topping not only adds visual appeal but also introduces a delightful crunch to the soft, chewy interior of the bread. This textural contrast is what elevates this recipe from ordinary to extraordinary, making it perfect for special occasions or a simple family gathering.
Tips for Perfecting Your Sourdough
For the best results with your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough, ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly. This will help your dough rise properly, leading to a lighter and airier loaf. If you're new to sourdough, consider feeding your starter the night before to ensure it’s at its peak.
Another tip is to incorporate the blueberries gently into the dough to prevent them from bursting too much, which can lead to color bleeding. If you prefer a more subtle blueberry flavor, you can also reduce the quantity slightly without compromising the bread’s overall taste.
Ingredients
For the Sourdough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Almond Topping
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Mix all ingredients thoroughly and allow them to rise for optimal flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, salt, sourdough starter, and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Incorporate the blueberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
First Rise
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape and Second Rise
Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the sliced almonds, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Preheat and Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, sprinkle the almond topping over the loaf. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your homemade Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with a spread of butter or your favorite jam.
Serving Suggestions
This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting breakfast or toast it for an afternoon snack. Pair it with a light cheese or yogurt to complement the fruitiness of the bread. For a delightful dessert, enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.
Consider using this bread as a base for French toast. The tangy flavors combined with the almond topping will take your brunch to the next level, impressing guests and family alike. A simple drizzle of maple syrup can enhance the overall sweetness while keeping the dish balanced.
Storage Tips
To maintain the freshness of your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. Avoid plastic bags, as they can create moisture that may lead to a soggy crust. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing the bread.
To freeze, slice the bread first, then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This method will help prevent freezer burn and allow you to enjoy a slice whenever you crave it. When ready to eat, simply toast the slices directly from frozen for a quick treat.
Nutritional Benefits
This artisanal bread is not just delicious, but it also carries nutritional benefits. The use of whole wheat flour adds fiber, which is essential for digestive health and can help you feel fuller longer. Blueberries are known for their antioxidant properties, providing a boost to your overall well-being.
Moreover, the lemon adds vitamin C, supporting your immune system. By choosing to make this homemade sourdough, you're not only indulging in a tasty treat but also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients, making it a savvy addition to your diet.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough to prevent excess moisture.
→ How do I store the bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can freeze it for longer storage.
→ Can I substitute the almond topping?
Absolutely! You can use chopped walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different flavor.
→ What if my dough didn't rise?
Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly. If the environment is too cold, try placing it in a warmer area to encourage rising.
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Almond Topping
Savor the delightful blend of tangy blueberries and zesty lemon in this artisanal sourdough bread topped with a crunchy almond crust.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Fresh Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Almond Topping
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, salt, sourdough starter, and warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Incorporate the blueberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Gently deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf. Place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix the sliced almonds, sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, sprinkle the almond topping over the loaf. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 48g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 8g