Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Mascarpone Swirl
Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes
Delight in the tangy and sweet combination of lemon and blueberries in this unique sourdough bread, enriched with a luxurious mascarpone swirl.
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Mascarpone Swirl is a delightful addition to any brunch or breakfast table. The combination of tangy lemon and sweet blueberries creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent. The creamy mascarpone adds a rich swirl that elevates this bread to a whole new level.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright citrus flavor perfectly balanced with sweet blueberries
- Soft, tangy sourdough texture with a creamy mascarpone finish
- Great for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Mascarpone Swirl is a delightful fusion of flavors that enchants your palate. The zesty brightness of lemon pairs harmoniously with the natural sweetness of blueberries, creating a refreshing taste experience. Each bite offers a burst of citrus that complements the soft, tangy notes of the sourdough, making it an irresistible treat at any time of day.
This recipe elevates traditional sourdough bread by introducing a creamy mascarpone swirl that adds a decadent finish. The richness of mascarpone cheese balances the acidity of lemon, resulting in a well-rounded flavor profile. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice, this bread will impress your family and friends with its sophisticated taste.
Versatile and Delightful
One of the many reasons to love this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough is its versatility. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful afternoon snack, it fits seamlessly into any meal. Toast a slice and spread a bit of extra mascarpone for a luxurious start to your day, or enjoy it plain for a quick pick-me-up.
This bread also makes for a beautiful centerpiece at gatherings. Its vibrant colors and unique swirl are bound to catch the eye and spark conversation. Pair it with fresh fruit or a light salad for a refreshing brunch spread, or serve with coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Baking Tips for Success
To achieve the best results with your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough, ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly. This will provide the necessary rise and tanginess to your bread. Additionally, be mindful of the water temperature; it should be warm but not hot, to avoid killing the yeast in your starter.
When shaping the dough, take care not to overwork it after adding the mascarpone and blueberries. Gently roll the dough to preserve the filling, ensuring even distribution throughout the loaf. If you notice excess juices from the blueberries, don’t worry; they’ll bake into the bread, adding moisture and flavor.
Ingredients
For the Sourdough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup bread flour
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3/4 cup water
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Mascarpone Swirl
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix these ingredients carefully to create a delightful sourdough experience.
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, salt, and sugar. Add the active sourdough starter and water, mixing until a rough dough forms. Incorporate the lemon zest and knead the dough until smooth.
First Rise
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Make the Mascarpone Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Shape the Dough
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Gently flatten it into a rectangle. Spread the mascarpone mixture over the surface, then sprinkle the fresh blueberries on top.
Roll and Second Rise
Roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the seams to seal. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Mascarpone Swirl!
Pro Tips
- For best results, use room temperature ingredients and ensure your sourdough starter is active.
Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Blueberry Sourdough pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a light lemon glaze for an extra touch of sweetness. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can also enhance its visual appeal, making it perfect for special occasions.
For a savory twist, enjoy slices with a side of herbed cream cheese or a light butter infused with lemon zest. This combination will enhance the flavors and create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the blueberries.
Storage Tips
To keep your Lemon Blueberry Sourdough fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you wish to prolong its shelf life, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored this way for up to three months.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the bread at room temperature or pop it in a toaster for a few minutes. You’ll have that freshly baked aroma and taste revived, making it feel like new again.
Nutrition Highlights
This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers some nutritional benefits. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to overall health. They can aid in heart health and improve brain function, making this bread a guilt-free indulgence.
Furthermore, sourdough bread is often easier to digest due to the fermentation process. The natural probiotics present can promote gut health, making this Lemon Blueberry Sourdough a tasty and health-conscious choice for your baking repertoire.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dough.
→ How should I store the bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can substitute the mascarpone with a vegan cream cheese alternative.
→ What if my dough doesn't rise?
Make sure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly; if not, it may need to be fed before use.
Lemon Blueberry Sourdough with Mascarpone Swirl
Delight in the tangy and sweet combination of lemon and blueberries in this unique sourdough bread, enriched with a luxurious mascarpone swirl.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: International Flavor Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Sourdough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup bread flour
- 1 cup active sourdough starter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3/4 cup water
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Mascarpone Swirl
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, bread flour, salt, and sugar. Add the active sourdough starter and water, mixing until a rough dough forms. Incorporate the lemon zest and knead the dough until smooth.
Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a small bowl, mix together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Gently flatten it into a rectangle. Spread the mascarpone mixture over the surface, then sprinkle the fresh blueberries on top.
Roll the dough tightly into a log, pinching the seams to seal. Place it in a greased loaf pan, cover, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the loaf for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For best results, use room temperature ingredients and ensure your sourdough starter is active.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 6g