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 cup fresh blueberries; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 1 cup warm water

Highlighted under: Classic Cakes & Desserts

I absolutely love making this blueberry lemon artisan bread! The sweet, juicy blueberries combined with the zesty lemon create a delightful flavor that brings a smile to my face. The bread has a beautiful golden crust and a soft, airy interior that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. I enjoy slicing it and toasting it lightly, then slathering on some butter for an indulgent treat. Trust me, this recipe is one you'll want to keep around forever!

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-02-14T22:05:36.543Z

When I first decided to bake my own artisan bread, I didn't expect to fall in love with the process. Watching the dough rise and transform into something fragrant and tasty is incredibly rewarding. I meticulously tested different flavor combinations, and the moment I added blueberries and lemon, I knew I had discovered something special. The bright acidity of the lemon accentuates the sweetness of the berries, providing a perfect balance.

What surprised me was how simple it was to achieve that artisanal crust. By using a baking stone and steaming the oven, I amplified those crispy edges that look so impressive. If you're hesitant to try bread baking, just know that the rewards are worth it—and the aroma is an experience all on its own!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and fresh flavor profile with juicy blueberries and tangy lemon
Artisan-quality crust that rivals bakery loaves
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a special treat

Understanding the Dough

The key to achieving the perfect texture in this artisan bread lies in your dough consistency. When mixing the ingredients, aim for a sticky dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl but remains slightly tacky to the touch. This moisture not only helps incorporate the blueberries but also keeps the final bread soft and airy. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more warm water, a teaspoon at a time, to reach that ideal sticky state.

During the first rise, it's crucial to create a warm environment for the dough to expand properly. An ideal temperature range is around 75°F to 85°F. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the bowl in an unlit oven with the light on, or on top of a warm stovetop. Proper rising ensures that the yeast activates fully, contributing to the bread's airy texture and rich flavor.

Baking Techniques

Baking this bread at 450°F gives it the artisan-quality crust that's both golden and crunchy. If you have a baking stone, preheating it will help the bread develop a nice bottom crust. Place the loaf directly on the stone for a few extra minutes if you seek that professional touch. For those without a stone, a preheated baking sheet can work just as well. Just make sure to keep an eye on the bread as it bakes, adjusting the time as necessary to avoid underbaking.

The visual cues for knowing when the bread is done are key. Look for a deep golden color on the crust and, if you tap the bottom, it should sound hollow. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This cooling period is essential; it prevents the interior from becoming gummy and ensures that you get those perfect slices for toasting.

Ingredients

For the Bread

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
1 cup warm water

Mix the ingredients well and allow the dough to rise for the best results.

Instructions

Directions

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, yeast, and lemon zest. Slowly add the warm water, mixing until a sticky dough forms.

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 it rise in a warm area for 30 minutes.

Shape the Bread

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and shape it into a round loaf.

Second Rise

Place the loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let it rise for another 20 minutes.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and place a baking stone inside if you have one.

Bake

Once preheated, carefully transfer the loaf to the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade blueberry lemon artisan bread sliced fresh or toasted!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the dough. Also, using frozen blueberries can work if fresh aren't available, just be sure to fold them in gently to avoid smashing them.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To enjoy your blueberry lemon artisan bread at its best, store it in a paper bag at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider slicing it and freezing the pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you're ready to eat, simply toast them straight from the freezer for a warm, fresh taste.

This bread is versatile. Serve it as a delightful breakfast with butter and a sprinkle of sugar or alongside yogurt and fresh fruit for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with a light lemon glaze or cream cheese spread for an afternoon snack or dessert. Consider making a bread pudding with any leftover slices for a delicious twist too!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make substitutions, there are a few options tailored to this recipe. Whole wheat flour can be used to replace a portion of the all-purpose flour, offering added fiber and nutty flavor. Just keep in mind it may require slightly more water to achieve the right dough consistency due to its higher absorption rate.

For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative or enjoy the bread plain. Honey or agave syrup can also take the place of sugar, adding a slight complexity to the sweetness. Keep the balance of flavors in mind while making these changes—each substitution can subtly affect the final taste of your artisan bread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute blueberries with raspberries, cranberries, or even chopped apples for a different flavor profile.

→ How should I store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze it for up to a month.

→ Is it possible to make this bread without yeast?

While this recipe specifically uses yeast for leavening, you could try using a baking powder alternative, though the texture will be different.

→ How do I know when the bread is done baking?

The bread should be golden brown, and tapping on the bottom should sound hollow. A digital thermometer can also be used; it should read around 200°F (93°C).