Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion combines the tartness of blueberries and lemons with a delicate hint of lavender, creating a unique and refreshing bread that's perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack.
This delightful Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion is not just a bread; it’s an experience. The vibrant colors and flavors come together to create a loaf that stands out on any table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The perfect balance of sweet blueberries and tangy lemon.
- A floral hint of lavender adds an unexpected twist.
- Great for toasting and spreading with butter or cream cheese.
The Unique Flavor Profile
The combination of blueberries and lemons creates a delightful contrast of flavors in this sourdough bread. Blueberries offer a natural sweetness, while the tartness of lemon zest brightens the overall taste. The interplay of these two ingredients makes each bite a burst of flavor, awakening your taste buds and making this bread a standout choice for breakfast or a snack.
Adding dried lavender introduces a floral note that enhances the bread's complexity. This unexpected ingredient elevates the traditional sourdough experience, making it not just a basic loaf, but a sophisticated treat that can impress guests or elevate your morning routine. The subtle aroma of lavender lingers, inviting you to savor each slice.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion is versatile enough to suit various occasions. Whether you're hosting a brunch, enjoying a quiet morning at home, or looking for a unique addition to a picnic, this bread fits the bill perfectly. It pairs beautifully with a spread of butter or cream cheese, enhancing the flavors and providing a rich, creamy contrast to the tangy bread.
This bread also makes a thoughtful gift. Imagine presenting a freshly baked loaf to a friend or loved one. The delightful combination of flavors and the beautiful presentation will surely make it a cherished treat. It’s a wonderful way to share the joy of baking and the unique flavors of this special recipe.
Tips for Success
To ensure the best results, make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before beginning. A healthy starter will contribute to the rise of the bread and enhance its flavor. Additionally, using fresh blueberries will provide the best flavor and texture; frozen blueberries may lead to a soggier result. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the dough.
Pay attention to the rising times. The dough should double in size during the first rise, which can vary based on room temperature. A warm environment will speed up the process, while cooler temperatures may slow it down. Don't rush it; allowing the dough to rise properly will result in a fluffier and more flavorful bread.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Sourdough Bread
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly
- 1 cup water, lukewarm
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon dried lavender
Mix all ingredients thoroughly and knead well for best results.
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sourdough starter, lukewarm water, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Add Flavorings
Gently fold in the blueberries, lemon zest, and dried lavender until evenly distributed.
Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 2-3 hours until doubled in size.
Shape and Second Rise
Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another hour.
Bake the Bread
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped on the bottom.
Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked bread with your favorite toppings!
Serving Suggestions
Once your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is cooled, consider slicing it thick for a heartier piece. It’s delicious served plain, but you can elevate it further with toppings. A smear of lemon-infused butter or a dollop of lavender honey can complement the flavors beautifully. If you're feeling indulgent, try pairing it with a light cream cheese spread mixed with a hint of lemon zest for an extra layer of flavor.
For a unique breakfast option, toast slices until golden brown and serve them with fresh fruit and yogurt. The combination of textures and flavors will create a satisfying and nutritious start to your day. This bread also makes an excellent French toast base, adding a fun twist to a classic breakfast dish.
Storage Tips
To keep your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing it in the refrigerator, where it can last for about a week. Just remember that refrigeration may affect the bread's texture slightly.
For longer storage, freeze your sourdough bread. Slice it before freezing for convenience, allowing you to take out only what you need. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply toast it directly from the freezer or let it thaw at room temperature.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries; just add them directly to the dough without thawing.
→ How do I store the sourdough bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
→ Can I replace the lavender with another herb?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other herbs like rosemary or thyme for a different flavor profile.
→ What can I serve this bread with?
This bread pairs well with butter, cream cheese, or even as a base for French toast.
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Lavender Infusion combines the tartness of blueberries and lemons with a delicate hint of lavender, creating a unique and refreshing bread that's perfect for breakfast or a delightful snack.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough Bread
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter, active and bubbly
- 1 cup water, lukewarm
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon dried lavender
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sourdough starter, lukewarm water, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Gently fold in the blueberries, lemon zest, and dried lavender until evenly distributed.
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 2-3 hours until doubled in size.
Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let rise for another hour.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped on the bottom.
Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 360mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 8g