Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Candied Peel

Name: Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Candied Peel
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly); 1 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh blueberries; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup candied lemon peel, chopped

Highlighted under: Easy Home Recipes

Savor the delightful combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries in this unique sourdough recipe, enhanced by the addition of candied peel.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-27T21:07:27.945Z

This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Candied Peel brings together the tanginess of lemon, the sweetness of blueberries, and the unique texture of sourdough. Perfect for breakfast or dessert!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and refreshing lemon flavor combined with juicy blueberries
The tangy sourdough base adds depth and character
Candied peel gives a sweet, chewy contrast to the bread
Perfectly pairs with butter or cream cheese for a delightful treat

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is a celebration of flavors that come together beautifully. The bright, zesty notes of lemon perfectly complement the natural sweetness of fresh blueberries, creating a delightful balance that excites your palate. Each bite offers a refreshing taste, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or a light snack.

Adding candied lemon peel not only enhances the lemon flavor but also introduces a sweet, chewy texture that contrasts with the bread's soft crumb. This combination of textures and flavors elevates the sourdough experience, turning a simple loaf into an extraordinary treat.

Sourdough: A Unique Baking Experience

Sourdough bread is renowned for its tangy flavor and chewy texture, which comes from the natural fermentation process. Using an active sourdough starter adds character to this recipe, ensuring that your bread rises beautifully while developing a deep, rich flavor. The fermentation process also contributes to the bread's health benefits, making it easier to digest and providing a source of beneficial probiotics.

In this recipe, the sourdough base adds complexity, enhancing the overall taste profile. It creates a hearty loaf that pairs wonderfully with both sweet and savory toppings. Imagine spreading creamy butter or tangy cream cheese on a slice of this delightful bread—it’s a match made in heaven.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a simple yet indulgent treat, serve it warm with a generous pat of butter. The richness of the butter enhances the flavors of lemon and blueberry, making every bite a comforting experience.

For a more decadent option, consider pairing the bread with cream cheese mixed with a hint of honey or vanilla. This combination not only adds sweetness but also complements the tanginess of the sourdough. You can also toast slices for a crispy texture and serve them with a dollop of yogurt and fresh berries for a delightful breakfast or brunch option.

Ingredients

For the Sourdough Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh blueberries
Zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup candied lemon peel, chopped

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the sourdough starter, warm water, and sugar. Stir until well mixed. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms.

Incorporate Blueberries and Lemon Zest

Gently fold in the blueberries and lemon zest. Be careful not to crush the blueberries.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface, shape it into a round loaf, and place it in a floured banneton or bowl. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat.

Second Rise

Cover the shaped dough and let it rise for another 30 minutes while the oven preheats.

Bake the Bread

Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven, place the dough inside, and cover with the lid. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with a spread of butter or cream cheese!

Make sure to let the bread cool completely before slicing for the best texture.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results, make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before starting the recipe. This is crucial for a good rise and flavor development in your bread. If you're unsure, you can perform a 'float test' with a small amount of starter to check its readiness.

When incorporating the blueberries and lemon zest, be gentle to avoid mashing the berries. This helps maintain the integrity of the fruit and ensures that every slice of bread is dotted with delicious bursts of flavor.

Storing Your Bread

Once your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough has cooled, it's essential to store it properly to preserve its freshness. Wrap the loaf in a clean kitchen towel and place it in a paper bag. This will allow the bread to breathe while preventing it from drying out.

If you want to keep it longer, consider slicing the bread and freezing individual pieces. Place slices in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can be enjoyed later by simply toasting them straight from the freezer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but be aware that they may burst during baking and tint the bread blue.

→ How do I store the bread?

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

→ What can I substitute for candied peel?

You can use finely chopped dried fruit or omit it altogether for a simpler bread.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply replace the sugar with coconut sugar and ensure your sourdough starter is vegan-friendly.