Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Candied Peel

Name: Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Candied Peel
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 500g bread flour; 350g water; 100g sourdough starter; 10g salt; Zest of 1 lemon; 150g fresh blueberries; 1 lemon, peeled and sliced; 200g sugar; 200ml water

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

Delight in the tangy sweetness of Lemon Blueberry Sourdough, enhanced with a touch of candied peel for a unique twist.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-27T18:52:27.318Z

This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Candied Peel is a delightful blend of flavors that will brighten your day. The tartness of the lemon perfectly complements the sweet blueberries, while the candied peel adds a unique texture and sweetness. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor paired with sweet blueberries
Chewy sourdough texture with a hint of sweetness from candied peel
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries in this sourdough bread creates a delightful harmony of flavors. The acidity of the lemon brightens the natural sweetness of the blueberries, making each bite a refreshing experience. This unique pairing adds a fruity twist to traditional sourdough, elevating it to a new level of deliciousness. The addition of candied peel brings an extra layer of flavor, enhancing the citrus notes while providing a delightful chewy texture.

As the bread bakes, the aromas of lemon and berries waft through your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby. This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is perfect for those who appreciate a sweet and tangy flavor profile, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or brunch. Whether enjoyed plain, toasted, or with a spread of cream cheese, this bread will surely impress your family and friends.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

In addition to being delicious, the ingredients in this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough also offer health benefits. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a great addition to your diet. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can help improve heart health. The inclusion of lemon not only enhances flavor but also adds a boost of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system.

Sourdough bread, with its natural fermentation process, is easier to digest compared to conventional bread. The fermentation breaks down gluten, making it a suitable option for those with mild gluten sensitivities. Moreover, sourdough has a lower glycemic index, which means it can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a better choice for those watching their sugar intake.

Tips for Perfecting Your Sourdough

To ensure your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough turns out perfectly every time, pay close attention to the temperature of your ingredients. Using room temperature water can help activate the sourdough starter more effectively. Additionally, make sure your sourdough starter is healthy and bubbly; a well-fed starter will yield the best results. If your starter has been in the fridge, give it a feeding and let it sit at room temperature for several hours before using it in your dough.

When shaping your loaf, be gentle to preserve the air bubbles that have formed during fermentation. This will help achieve that delightful chewy texture characteristic of sourdough. Finally, ensure your oven is adequately preheated before baking to create a perfect crust. Using a Dutch oven helps trap steam, leading to a beautifully risen loaf with a crispy exterior.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Candied Peel.

For the Sourdough

500g bread flour
350g water
100g sourdough starter
10g salt
Zest of 1 lemon
150g fresh blueberries

For the Candied Peel

1 lemon, peeled and sliced
200g sugar
200ml water

Ensure all ingredients are measured accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Candied Peel.

Prepare the Candied Peel

In a saucepan, combine 200ml of water and 200g of sugar. Bring to a boil.

Add the lemon slices and simmer for about 30 minutes until translucent.

Remove from heat and let cool, then chop into small pieces.

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the bread flour and water until no dry flour remains. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

Add the sourdough starter, salt, and lemon zest. Mix until well combined.

Incorporate the blueberries and candied peel gently into the dough.

Bulk Fermentation

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size. Stretch and fold the dough every 30 minutes for the first 1.5 hours.

Shape and Proof

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf.

Place the loaf in a proofing basket and cover. Let it proof for 1 hour.

Bake the Loaf

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside.

Carefully place the loaf into the hot Dutch oven and cover. Bake for 30 minutes.

Remove the lid and bake for an additional 20 minutes 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 Candied Peel!

Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its texture.

Storage and Freshness

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 need to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Slices can be placed in an airtight container or freezer bag, allowing for easy toasting straight from the freezer. This method preserves the bread's delightful texture and flavor, ensuring you can enjoy it whenever you crave a slice.

When reheating, a quick toast will revive the crust's crispness while warming the soft interior. You can also enjoy it with a spread of butter or your favorite jam, enhancing the flavors even further. This versatility makes it a wonderful addition to any meal, from breakfast to an afternoon snack.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings and spreads. For a classic breakfast, try it with a smear of cream cheese and a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. Alternatively, a dollop of yogurt with fresh fruit makes for a refreshing brunch option. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or as a base for sandwiches, where the fruity notes can add a surprising twist.

For those special occasions, consider serving it with a citrus-infused butter or a homemade berry compote. The combination of flavors will delight your guests and make any gathering feel more festive. No matter how you choose to serve it, this bread is sure to be a hit.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough.

→ How long can I store the bread?

You can store the bread at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with this bread?

This bread pairs well with butter, cream cheese, or as a side with tea or coffee.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can attempt to make it gluten-free by substituting with a gluten-free flour blend, but the results may vary.