Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Vanilla Crunch

Name: Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Vanilla Crunch
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup bread flour; 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly); 1 cup warm water; 1/2 cup fresh blueberries; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Golden Crust & Sweet Cravings

This delightful Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Vanilla Crunch combines the tangy brightness of fresh lemons with sweet blueberries, all enveloped in a beautifully airy sourdough bread. Topped with a crunchy vanilla streusel, it’s a perfect treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-27T22:01:26.488Z

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is not just another bread recipe; it’s a journey of flavors. The tartness of lemons complements the sweetness of blueberries, creating a harmony that’s enhanced by the signature sourdough tang. Perfect for brunch or a cozy evening, this bread is as beautiful as it is delicious.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delicious combination of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon
Complex flavor profile from the sourdough fermentation
Crispy vanilla crunch topping adds a delightful texture
Perfect for any time of day, from breakfast to dessert

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Vanilla Crunch is a harmonious blend of flavors that creates a delightful taste experience. The tartness of fresh lemons perfectly complements the natural sweetness of blueberries, resulting in a bread that is both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite is a burst of fruity goodness, making it an ideal choice for those who love a sweet yet tangy treat.

The addition of sourdough not only enhances the flavor profile but also contributes to the bread's texture. The fermentation process gives the bread a unique depth of flavor, with a slight tanginess that balances beautifully with the lemon and blueberries. This complex flavor combination is sure to please your palate and leave you craving more.

A Crunchy Topping for Extra Delight

The vanilla crunch topping adds an irresistible texture to this loaf. Made from a simple mixture of flour, brown sugar, and cold butter, it transforms the bread into a gourmet treat that is both visually appealing and delicious. As the bread bakes, the topping turns golden brown and crispy, providing a delightful contrast to the soft and airy interior.

This crunchy layer not only enhances the overall flavor but also elevates the aesthetic appeal of your bread. The sweet aroma of vanilla wafting through your kitchen while it bakes will have everyone eagerly anticipating the first slice. It’s the perfect finishing touch that takes this bread from ordinary to extraordinary.

Versatile and Enjoyable Any Time

One of the best aspects of Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Vanilla Crunch is its versatility. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast with a pat of butter, as a midday snack, or as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream, this bread is sure to satisfy any craving. Its delicious flavor profile makes it suitable for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant brunches.

Additionally, this bread can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Want to experiment with different fruits? Try substituting the blueberries with raspberries or chopped strawberries for a personalized twist. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup bread flour
1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
1 cup warm water
1/2 cup fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar

For the Vanilla Crunch Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to use fresh blueberries for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, sourdough starter, warm water, salt, and sugar. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Add Blueberries and Lemon

Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice until evenly incorporated.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Shape the Loaf

Turn the dough onto a floured surface, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan.

Second Rise

Cover the loaf and let it rise for another 30 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the flour, brown sugar, cold butter, vanilla extract, and salt until crumbly. Sprinkle over the top of the loaf before baking.

Bake the Bread

Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Vanilla Crunch!

Tips for Perfect Sourdough

To achieve the best results with your sourdough, ensure that your starter is active and bubbly before beginning the recipe. A well-maintained starter will provide the necessary rise and flavor to your bread. If you're unsure about the readiness of your starter, perform the 'float test' by dropping a spoonful into a glass of water; if it floats, it's ready to use.

Additionally, the temperature of your environment can affect the fermentation process. If your kitchen is cooler, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm area to encourage rising. Conversely, if it’s too warm, keep an eye on the dough to prevent over-proofing.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

To keep your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Vanilla Crunch fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it longer, consider freezing it. Slice the bread and wrap each piece individually before placing it in a resealable bag. This way, you can pull out just what you need without compromising the entire loaf.

For serving, consider pairing this delightful bread with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of yogurt for a refreshing breakfast option. It also makes a lovely addition to a cheese platter, where the sweet and tangy flavors can complement a variety of cheeses.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just add them directly to the dough without thawing.

→ How should I store the bread?

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

→ Can I substitute the sourdough starter?

You can use store-bought sourdough bread or a commercial yeast recipe, but the flavor and texture will differ.

→ What can I serve with this bread?

This bread is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with butter, cream cheese, or a fruit spread.