Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread

Name: Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon instant yeast; 1 cup warm water; 1 cup fresh blueberries; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Golden Ideas

I absolutely love making this Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread whenever I want to impress my family and friends. The delightful aroma of fresh blueberries combined with a hint of zesty lemon fills the kitchen, making everyone eager to taste it. With a soft, chewy crust and a light, fluffy interior, this bread is perfect for breakfast or as an indulgent snack. It’s quick to whip up and even more rewarding to share. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want it in your regular rotation!

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-10T22:21:36.069Z

When I first attempted to create this Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread, I wanted to blend two of my favorite flavors into something special. I found that the key to achieving the perfect rise and texture was to let the dough rest sufficiently, allowing the gluten to develop. As it baked, the scent wafting through my home was heavenly!

In this recipe, I discovered that using fresh blueberries rather than frozen ones made a significant difference in both taste and presentation. The vibrant bursts of juice alongside the zesty lemon make every bite truly unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The bright combination of blueberries and lemon creates a refreshing taste.
The artisanal crust offers a wonderful texture and flavor.
Great for any occasion, from brunch to casual get-togethers!

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread plays a critical role in creating its standout flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour provides the necessary backbone, giving the bread its structure. Meanwhile, the combination of sugar and yeast kicks off the fermentation process, contributing to the lovely rise and slight sweetness. The blueberries not only add a burst of flavor but also moisture, while lemon zest and juice introduce a refreshing tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Don't underestimate the power of using fresh blueberries; they release juices that meld with the dough during baking, creating streaks of flavor. If fresh berries are out of season or unavailable, you can substitute with frozen blueberries. Just be sure to add them straight from the freezer to avoid excess moisture that can alter dough consistency. Remember that the zest is just as important—its oils contain the aromatic elements that elevate the bread's overall taste profile.

Essential Techniques for Perfect Artisan Bread

Shaping the dough correctly is key to achieving that beautiful artisan crust. After the first rise, you can gently deflate the dough to release air bubbles while being mindful not to overwork it, which can make the crumb dense. When turning out the dough onto a floured surface, use a bench scraper to help maintain the dough’s shape as you form it into a round loaf. This step not only promotes the fantastic crust but also helps the loaf rise evenly during the second rise and baking.

Don’t skip the resting periods. Both the first and second rises are crucial for developing gluten structure and achieving a light, airy texture. If you find that your dough isn't rising as expected, check the temperature of your environment; a warm, draft-free area is ideal. If your kitchen is chilly, consider placing the dough in an oven turned off but with the light on, creating a cozy microenvironment for the yeast to do its job.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your bread perfect:

Bread Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon instant yeast
1 cup warm water
1 cup fresh blueberries
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon lemon juice

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

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious bread:

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of the ingredients.

Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the warm water, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a shaggy dough.

Incorporate Blueberries

Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes until it doubles in size.

Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Second Rise

Cover the loaf again and let it rise for another 15 minutes.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the bread for 30 minutes or until golden brown and the bottom sounds hollow when tapped.

Cool

Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing to allow the inside to set properly.

Enjoy your freshly baked Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread as a delightful treat!

Pro Tips

For a glossy finish, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter after baking.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, let your Blueberry Lemon Artisan Bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This cooling step is vital, as it allows the bread’s interior structure to set properly, preventing it from becoming gummy. To store, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. For optimal freshness, enjoy it within 2-3 days, although it can be stored for up to a week in the freezer if wrapped well.

When serving, consider a simple pairing of butter or cream cheese to enhance the flavors of the bread, or toast slices for a crunchy treat. If you're adventurous, try drizzling honey or a lemon glaze for an extra touch of sweetness. This bread also shines in French toast preparations—simply soak slices in an egg mixture prior to frying for a delightful brunch option.

Customization and Variations

Feel free to experiment with flavors while keeping the base of this recipe. For instance, you could replace a portion of the blueberries with raspberries or diced strawberries for a mixed berry version. Additionally, incorporating herbs like rosemary or thyme can introduce a savory note that complements the sweetness of the berries and citrus beautifully, offering a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress at gatherings.

For a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it has xanthan gum to help mimic the elasticity of gluten. However, keep an eye on hydration levels, as alternative flours may absorb moisture differently. Adjust the water content slightly if necessary to achieve that ideal shaggy dough consistency to ensure success with this delightful bread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, but be aware that frozen blueberries may release more moisture, affecting the overall texture.

→ How do I store the bread?

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

→ Can I substitute whole wheat flour?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based, making this bread a great vegan option.