Tangy Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread Bake
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes
This delightful Tangy Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread Bake combines the zesty brightness of lemons with the sweet burst of blueberries, all nestled in a comforting bread bake that's perfect for breakfast or dessert.
This Tangy Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread Bake is a delightful twist on traditional bread pudding. The sourdough adds a unique flavor, while the combination of lemon and blueberries creates a refreshing taste that's perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty lemon flavor with juicy blueberries
- Perfectly balanced sweetness makes it a great dessert or breakfast option
- Easy to prepare using leftover sourdough bread
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
The combination of lemon and blueberries is a match made in culinary heaven. The bright acidity of the lemon beautifully complements the natural sweetness of the blueberries, creating a flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. Each bite of this Tangy Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread Bake is a burst of sunshine, making it an ideal treat for any time of the day.
Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast option or a delightful dessert, this dish promises to uplift your spirits. The acidity from the lemons cuts through the richness of the eggs and milk, ensuring that the dish remains light yet indulgent. This balance is key to creating a bread bake that leaves you wanting more.
Using Leftover Sourdough Bread
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its use of leftover sourdough bread. Instead of letting stale bread go to waste, transform it into a delicious and comforting bake. Sourdough bread has a unique texture and flavor that enhances the overall dish, adding depth that regular bread simply can't match.
Cubing the sourdough allows it to soak up the creamy custard mixture, ensuring that each piece is infused with flavor. This not only minimizes food waste but also gives you a chance to enjoy your sourdough in a new and exciting way. Plus, the tangy flavor of sourdough contributes to a more complex taste profile in the final bake.
Tips for Perfecting Your Bake
To achieve the best results, consider using fresh blueberries when they're in season. However, if fresh berries aren't available, frozen blueberries work just as well. If you choose to use frozen, there's no need to thaw them beforehand—just toss them directly into the mix. This method helps maintain their shape and prevents them from becoming mushy.
Another tip is to let the mixture sit for the full 10 minutes before baking. This resting period allows the bread to absorb the liquid, creating a wonderfully moist texture. Keeping an eye on the bake in the last few minutes is also essential—once the top is golden and set, it’s ready to come out of the oven for that perfect finish.
Ingredients
For the Bread Bake
- 4 cups sourdough bread, cubed
- 2 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Prepare the Bread Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cubed sourdough bread and blueberries. Toss gently to mix.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Combine and Bake
Pour the wet mixture over the bread and blueberries, ensuring everything is well coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid. Then, transfer to the prepared baking dish and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
Let the bread bake cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Tangy Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread Bake can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion. For a delightful breakfast, serve it alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. If you're enjoying it as a dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of lemon glaze can elevate the experience even further.
Consider garnishing your bake with fresh blueberries and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra burst of flavor. Pairing it with a cup of coffee or a refreshing herbal tea creates a lovely brunch or dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers (which is often unlikely with this delicious bake), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until heated through.
For longer storage, you can also freeze slices of the bake. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired. This makes it easy to enjoy a slice of tangy goodness anytime you crave it.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! Adding nuts such as pecans or walnuts can give your bread bake an added crunch. You could also experiment with different fruits, like raspberries or blackberries, for a unique twist on the classic flavors.
If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to your liking. Additionally, incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile and add warmth to the dish. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to make it your own while still enjoying that delightful lemon-blueberry combination.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other fruits instead of blueberries?
Yes, you can substitute blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or even peaches!
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this bread bake?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just ensure it is fully cooled before wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then foil.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
This bread bake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of custard sauce.
Tangy Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread Bake
This delightful Tangy Lemon Blueberry Sourdough Bread Bake combines the zesty brightness of lemons with the sweet burst of blueberries, all nestled in a comforting bread bake that's perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Bread Bake
- 4 cups sourdough bread, cubed
- 2 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
In a large bowl, combine the cubed sourdough bread and blueberries. Toss gently to mix.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Pour the wet mixture over the bread and blueberries, ensuring everything is well coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid. Then, transfer to the prepared baking dish and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 6g