Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread

Name: Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/4 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 1 cup fresh blueberries; Zest of 1 lemon; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Sweet Comfort Bakes

I’ve always had a passion for baking, and this Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread truly embodies that love. The fresh burst of blueberries combined with the zesty brightness of lemon creates an irresistible flavor profile. I have perfected this recipe over the years, allowing for a gentle rise and a beautiful crust that captures the mouthwatering filling within. It's perfect as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, and your kitchen will smell heavenly as it bakes to golden perfection.

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-02-15T03:21:36.384Z

When I first ventured into artisan bread-making, I was surprised by how simple yet rewarding it could be. The dough for this Blueberry Lemon Bread benefits greatly from a long fermentation, which is why I always allow it to rise slowly. This not only develops flavor but also gives the finished loaf a beautiful, airy texture that makes each slice delightful.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility. You can add nuts or substitute the blueberries for your favorite berry, allowing for seasonal or personal customization. Just remember to gently fold in the fruit to avoid let them break apart!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh fruit flavor
A perfect balance of sweet and tangy
Tender and airy crumb with a lovely crust

Understanding the Dough Basics

The foundation of Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread lies in the dough itself, requiring proper hydration for optimal rise and flavor. The warm water should be about 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast effectively, creating that fluffy texture we all love. The combination of all-purpose flour and warm water develops gluten, which is essential for the structure of the bread. If you find your dough too sticky, lightly sprinkle additional flour while kneading, but avoid adding too much to ensure the bread remains tender.

Another key component is the resting period where the dough first rises. This 12 to 18 hours allows for the development of complex flavors, giving your bread a slight tang. A good visual cue is the formation of bubbles on the surface, indicating that fermentation is occurring. To ensure a successful rise, choose a warm spot in your kitchen but avoid direct sunlight, which can cause uneven rising.

Incorporating Flavorful Ingredients

Folding in the blueberries and lemon zest during the second stage is crucial for maintaining the fruit's integrity. Blueberries are delicate and can easily break, which will turn your dough blue instead of creating lovely pockets of fruit. Gently folding with a spatula rather than stirring vigorously helps keep the berries whole. Use fresh blueberries for the best taste; if they're unavailable, consider frozen blueberries, but do not thaw them first, as they tend to release excess moisture.

The zest of the lemon plays an important role in enhancing the bread's flavor without adding liquid, which could alter the dough's consistency. For optimal zesting, use a fine microplane, and be careful to avoid the bitter white pith underneath the skin. The zest will provide a bright contrast to the sweetness of the blueberries, making each bite irresistible.

Baking and Storing Your Bread

Preheating your Dutch oven is essential for achieving that perfect crust on your artisan bread. The initial steam created when you place the dough inside helps develop a crispy outer layer. Make sure that your oven is fully preheated for at least 30 minutes before baking. Carefully remove the pot using oven mitts to prevent any accidents while placing the dough inside; the Dutch oven will be extremely hot.

Once baked, allowing the bread to cool on a wire rack is crucial for the texture of the crumb. If you slice it too early, the inside may become gummy due to residual steam. Store any leftover bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice and freeze, wrapping each slice in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, you can enjoy your delicious Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread at any time!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 cup fresh blueberries
Zest of 1 lemon
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread.

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, warm water, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel and let it sit at room temperature for 12-18 hours until bubbly and doubled in size.

Incorporate Blueberries and Lemon

Gently fold in the blueberries and lemon zest, ensuring not to break the berries.

Second Rise

Shape the dough into a ball and place it on a floured surface. Cover and let rise for another 1-2 hours.

Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place a Dutch oven inside.

Bake the Bread

Carefully remove the preheated Dutch oven, place the dough in, cover, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool on a wire rack before slicing it. Enjoy your artisan creation!

For the best flavor, let the bread rest before slicing.

Pro Tips

To keep the blueberries from sinking to the bottom, toss them in a bit of flour before folding them into the dough.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding some nuts like chopped walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor. These can complement the fruit beautifully. Additionally, a sprinkle of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile, providing a warm, cozy note to the brightness of the lemon and blueberries. Just mix in about half a teaspoon with the dry ingredients for a subtler spice.

For a more indulgent treat, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the cooled bread. Combine powdered sugar with freshly squeezed lemon juice to create a smooth mixture, and adjust the consistency with more sugar or juice as needed. This adds a delightful sweetness that balances the tangy lemon and tart blueberries.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bread doesn't rise as expected, check the yeast's freshness. Yeast that is past its expiration date can lead to flat bread. Always activate your yeast in warm water before mixing it with the dry ingredients to ensure it's working. If the dough is too wet, it can lead to a dense crumb; however, adding a little flour while kneading should help rectify this.

Should your bread develop an uneven crust, one side darker than the other, rotate the Dutch oven halfway through baking. This ensures even browning and provides a beautiful, uniform crust. Also, remember that every oven behaves differently; you may need to adjust the baking times slightly based on how your oven distributes heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough.

→ How do I store the bread?

Store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with this bread?

It pairs wonderfully with butter, cream cheese, or as a side with tea or coffee.

→ Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?

Yes, you can bake it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, but the crust may not be as crispy.