Artisan Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Dutch Oven

Name: Artisan Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Dutch Oven
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup bread flour; 1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly; 1 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This Artisan Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Dutch Oven bread is a delightful blend of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-27T19:22:28.453Z

This recipe combines the art of sourdough baking with the refreshing flavors of lemon and blueberries, resulting in a loaf that's both flavorful and visually appealing.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens your day
Juicy blueberries add a delightful sweetness
Perfect crust achieved by baking in a Dutch oven

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Artisan Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Dutch Oven bread offers a beautiful harmony between the zesty brightness of lemon and the natural sweetness of fresh blueberries. Each bite is a delightful combination that awakens your taste buds, making it a wonderful choice not just for breakfast, but also as a satisfying snack throughout the day. The use of both all-purpose and bread flour contributes to a light yet chewy texture, enhancing the overall experience.

Incorporating lemon zest and juice into the dough creates a refreshing aroma that fills your kitchen while baking. The addition of blueberries brings bursts of sweetness that perfectly complement the tangy notes of the lemon. Whether you enjoy it toasted with a pat of butter or plain, this bread promises to bring a smile to your face.

Why Sourdough?

Sourdough bread is loved for its unique flavor profile and health benefits. The fermentation process involved in sourdough introduces beneficial bacteria and yeast, making it easier to digest than conventional bread. Additionally, sourdough has a lower glycemic index, which means it can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a preferred choice for many health-conscious individuals.

Using an active and bubbly sourdough starter not only imparts a delightful tangy flavor but also contributes to the loaf's texture. The open crumb structure that sourdough is known for allows for better moisture retention, resulting in a bread that stays fresh longer. Plus, the crust formed during baking in a Dutch oven is simply unbeatable.

Tips for Success

For best results, make sure your sourdough starter is at its peak activity before you begin. This means it should be bubbly and doubled in size after feeding. If you're unsure, give it a test by floating a small spoonful in water—if it floats, it's ready to use!

When incorporating the blueberries, handle the dough gently to avoid bursting them too much. This will ensure that you have beautiful pockets of fruit throughout your bread. Additionally, using a parchment paper sling when transferring the dough to the hot Dutch oven can help you avoid burns and make the process smoother.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious bread.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup bread flour
1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly
1 cup warm water
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Artisan Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Dutch Oven bread.

Mix the Dough

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

Knead and Rise

Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Add Blueberries and Shape

Once risen, gently fold in the blueberries and lemon juice. Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Preheat Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat up.

Bake the Bread

Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Lift the parchment with the dough and place it inside the Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.

Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your Artisan Lemon Blueberry Sourdough!

Allow the bread to cool fully for the best texture when slicing.

Serving Suggestions

This Artisan Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm with a spread of cream cheese or lemon curd for a delightful breakfast treat. Alternatively, it pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. The flavors are perfect for both casual gatherings and more formal brunch occasions.

For a unique twist, consider toasting slices and topping them with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a drizzle of honey. The possibilities are endless, and each serving can be tailored to suit your taste preferences!

Storing Your Bread

To keep your Artisan Lemon Blueberry Sourdough fresh, store it at room temperature in a bread bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel. Avoid plastic bags, as they can create condensation, leading to a soggy crust. Properly stored, the bread can last up to three days, maintaining its delightful flavor and texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you crave it—just pop it in the toaster or let it thaw at room temperature.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but do not thaw them before adding to the dough.

→ How do I know when the bread is done?

The bread should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

→ Can I make this recipe without a Dutch oven?

You can bake it on a baking stone or sheet, but the crust may not be as crispy.

→ How should I store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.