Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Salted Caramel
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Salted Caramel is a delightful blend of tangy lemons and sweet blueberries, all wrapped in a soft, crusty sourdough loaf, topped with a rich salted caramel drizzle.
This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough combines the best of summer flavors with the beloved texture of homemade sourdough bread. The addition of salted caramel elevates this recipe, making it a showstopper for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with juicy blueberries and zesty lemon flavor
- The perfect balance of sweet and salty with the caramel drizzle
- A unique twist on traditional sourdough that impresses every time
A Perfect Balance of Flavors
The combination of blueberries and lemons in this sourdough bread creates a delightful explosion of flavor with every bite. The sweetness of the blueberries complements the zesty tartness of the lemon, making this bread an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert. The acidity from the lemon also helps to brighten the overall taste, enhancing the natural flavors of the blueberries and creating a refreshing experience.
When paired with the rich salted caramel drizzle, the flavor profile reaches new heights. The caramel adds a luxurious sweetness that balances the tangy elements of the bread, making it a standout addition to any brunch table or special occasion. This unique fusion of flavors is sure to impress friends and family alike.
The Art of Sourdough Baking
Baking sourdough is both an art and a science, and this recipe embraces both aspects beautifully. The fermentation process not only develops complex flavors but also contributes to the bread's airy texture. Using an active sourdough starter is crucial for achieving that perfect rise and chewy crust. The longer fermentation time enhances the bread's depth of flavor, making it a rewarding experience for any home baker.
Shaping the dough is another critical step in sourdough baking. It requires a gentle touch to retain the air bubbles developed during fermentation. This technique ensures that your loaf will have a beautiful structure, allowing it to rise nicely in the oven while maintaining a soft, moist interior.
Serving Suggestions
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Salted Caramel can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a comforting breakfast or enjoy it as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. The caramel drizzle not only adds sweetness but also makes for a stunning presentation, perfect for entertaining guests.
For a more decadent treat, consider topping a slice with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a gourmet dessert experience that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare. This versatile bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Sourdough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup bread flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Salted Caramel
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Make sure to use fresh blueberries for the best flavor and texture!
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well. Add the sourdough starter and warm water. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Shape and Second Rise
Once risen, gently deflate the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a floured proofing basket and cover. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat up.
Bake the Bread
Carefully transfer the dough to the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
Make the Salted Caramel
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Cook without stirring until the mixture turns amber. Remove from heat and slowly whisk in heavy cream.
Serve
Once the bread has cooled, drizzle with salted caramel before slicing. Enjoy your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough!
Feel free to customize the caramel drizzle to your liking!
Storing Your Sourdough
To keep your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough fresh, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. Avoid plastic bags, as they can cause the crust to become soggy. If you want to extend the shelf life, consider freezing the loaf. Slice it before freezing for easy serving later on. It can be stored in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen sourdough, simply thaw it at room temperature or reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to regain that fresh-baked texture. This method ensures that you can savor the delicious flavors of your sourdough anytime.
Tips for Success
For the best results, make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before you begin. A well-fed starter will give your bread the lift it needs and improve the flavor. Additionally, measuring your ingredients accurately can make a significant difference in the final outcome. Consider using a kitchen scale for precision.
Don’t rush the fermentation process. Allowing the dough to rise adequately will enhance the flavor and texture of your bread. If your kitchen is cool, you might extend the rising times to ensure the dough develops fully. Patience is key to achieving that perfect crust and airy crumb.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but ensure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough to avoid excess moisture.
→ How do I store leftover bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
→ What if my sourdough starter isn't bubbly?
Make sure to feed your starter at least 4-6 hours before using it in the recipe.
→ Can I skip the caramel?
Absolutely! The bread is delicious on its own, or you can serve with butter or cream cheese.
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Salted Caramel
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Salted Caramel is a delightful blend of tangy lemons and sweet blueberries, all wrapped in a soft, crusty sourdough loaf, topped with a rich salted caramel drizzle.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup bread flour
- 1 cup sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Salted Caramel
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well. Add the sourdough starter and warm water. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Add the lemon zest and juice, then gently fold in the blueberries. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Once risen, gently deflate the dough and shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a floured proofing basket and cover. Let it rise for another 30 minutes.
While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a Dutch oven inside to heat up.
Carefully transfer the dough to the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Cook without stirring until the mixture turns amber. Remove from heat and slowly whisk in heavy cream. Stir in salt and butter until smooth. Let cool.
Once the bread has cooled, drizzle with salted caramel before slicing. Enjoy your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 58g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 8g