Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Mascarpone Spread
Highlighted under: Fresh Season Kitchen
Delight in the tangy sweetness of our Blueberry Lemon Sourdough, perfectly complemented by a rich mascarpone spread. This recipe brings together the freshness of blueberries and zesty lemon in every bite.
This Blueberry Lemon Sourdough is not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. The vibrant blueberries and the refreshing zing of lemon make it an ideal choice for brunch or a delightful afternoon snack.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with fresh blueberry flavor and citrusy brightness
- Creamy mascarpone spread adds a luxurious touch
- Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy tea times
A Perfect Blend of Flavors
The marriage of blueberries and lemon in this sourdough bread creates a unique flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying. The tartness of the blueberries perfectly complements the zesty brightness of the lemon, resulting in a loaf that is aromatic and inviting. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of flavors that can brighten any meal, making it a standout addition to your baking repertoire.
Incorporating seasonal fruits like blueberries not only enhances the taste but also adds nutritional value. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making this sourdough a healthier choice for your diet. The inclusion of lemon zest and juice not only elevates the flavor but also infuses the bread with a burst of freshness, ensuring that every slice is as vibrant as it is delicious.
The Creamy Mascarpone Spread
The mascarpone spread is the perfect accompaniment to the Blueberry Lemon Sourdough, offering a creamy contrast to the bread's crusty exterior. With just a handful of ingredients, this spread elevates the entire dish, turning a simple slice of bread into a gourmet experience. The sweetness of honey combined with the tang of lemon zest amplifies the overall flavor, making each bite indulgent.
This spread is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can use it as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or even as a filling for pastries. By adding a pinch of salt, you balance the sweetness, creating a well-rounded flavor profile that will impress your guests. It’s a simple yet luxurious addition that transforms your brunch table into a feast.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a brunch gathering or enjoying a cozy tea time, Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Mascarpone Spread fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its vibrant colors and delightful aromas make it an eye-catching centerpiece. Serve it alongside fresh fruit, a selection of teas, or even a glass of sparkling wine for a truly memorable experience.
This recipe is also an excellent choice for gifting. Wrapped in parchment and tied with twine, a loaf of this sourdough bread makes for a thoughtful present for friends or family. Sharing homemade baked goods is a timeless way to show you care, and this loaf is sure to bring smiles and joy to anyone lucky enough to receive it.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful sourdough bread:
For the Sourdough
- 500g bread flour
- 350g water, at room temperature
- 100g active sourdough starter
- 10g salt
- 200g fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Mascarpone Spread
- 250g mascarpone cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Pinch of salt
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start your baking adventure!
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough:
Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the bread flour and water. Stir until no dry flour remains. Add the sourdough starter and mix well.
Add Ingredients
After the autolyse, add salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the dough. Knead until smooth, about 10 minutes. Gently fold in the blueberries.
Bulk Fermentation
Cover the dough and let it rise for 4-5 hours at room temperature, performing stretch and folds every hour.
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a floured proofing basket and let it rest for another 1-2 hours.
Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside. Once hot, carefully transfer the dough into the Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
Make the Mascarpone Spread
While the bread is baking, mix the mascarpone cheese, honey, lemon zest, and salt together in a bowl until smooth.
Serve
Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. Spread the mascarpone on each slice and enjoy!
Now that you have your delicious bread and spread, it's time to enjoy!
Tips for Sourdough Success
To achieve the best results with your Blueberry Lemon Sourdough, ensure that your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before you begin. A healthy starter is key to a good rise and flavor development. If you’re unsure, perform a float test: drop a spoonful of your starter in water; if it floats, it’s ready to use!
Don’t rush the fermentation process. Allowing the dough to bulk ferment at room temperature enhances the flavor and texture of the bread. Pay attention to the dough's appearance; it should become airy and slightly domed. Performing stretch and folds during bulk fermentation helps to strengthen the gluten structure, leading to a better rise in the oven.
Storing Your Sourdough
After baking, let the Blueberry Lemon Sourdough cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents moisture buildup and ensures a crispy crust. Once cooled, store the bread in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean kitchen towel at room temperature to maintain its texture. Avoid plastic bags, as they can make the crust soggy.
If you have leftovers, consider freezing slices for later enjoyment. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or toast directly from frozen for a quick and delicious treat.
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?
Store the sourdough in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
→ What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour during the kneading process, but be careful not to add too much.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour, but the texture and rise may vary.
Blueberry Lemon Sourdough with Mascarpone Spread
Delight in the tangy sweetness of our Blueberry Lemon Sourdough, perfectly complemented by a rich mascarpone spread. This recipe brings together the freshness of blueberries and zesty lemon in every bite.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Fresh Season Kitchen
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough
- 500g bread flour
- 350g water, at room temperature
- 100g active sourdough starter
- 10g salt
- 200g fresh blueberries
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Mascarpone Spread
- 250g mascarpone cheese
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the bread flour and water. Stir until no dry flour remains. Add the sourdough starter and mix well. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
After the autolyse, add salt, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the dough. Knead until smooth, about 10 minutes. Gently fold in the blueberries.
Cover the dough and let it rise for 4-5 hours at room temperature, performing stretch and folds every hour.
Once the dough has risen, shape it into a round loaf. Place it in a floured proofing basket and let it rest for another 1-2 hours.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside. Once hot, carefully transfer the dough into the Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown.
While the bread is baking, mix the mascarpone cheese, honey, lemon zest, and salt together in a bowl until smooth.
Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing. Spread the mascarpone on each slice and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 8g