Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread

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Golden and crisp on the outside, airy and chewy on the inside, this Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread is anything but ordinary. It takes the savory Italian classic and gives it a sweet, citrusy twist perfect for spring brunches, afternoon snacks, or even dessert. With bursts of juicy blueberries and the zest of lemon baked into every bite, this bread feels like sunshine in a pan.

What makes this focaccia truly special is how the sweetness of the fruit contrasts with the rich olive oil and the light flakiness of the dough. It’s rustic and beautiful, slightly crisp on the edges, and incredibly aromatic as it bakes. Whether you’re serving it warm with whipped cream cheese or just tearing off a piece to snack on, it’s a bake that surprises and delights.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread

If you enjoy baking with fruit but want something more textured than a muffin and more elegant than a quick bread, this focaccia is a game-changer. The dough is simple and forgiving, and the combination of lemon and blueberry offers a balanced flavor that’s sweet but not overly so. Plus, it looks like a centerpiece straight out of a bakery window. It’s easy to make, hard to mess up, and guaranteed to impress.

What Kind of Focaccia Dough Should I Use?

Classic focaccia dough works beautifully here. You want a soft, high-hydration dough that rises slowly and bakes with a pillowy interior. Using a bit more olive oil than usual not only adds richness but helps create that signature golden crust. If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough can be used in a pinch, but the homemade version really makes a difference in flavor and texture.

Ingredients for the Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread

Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread starts with pantry staples and finishes with fresh bursts of flavor. Here’s what you need:

  • All-purpose flour: This forms the structure of your focaccia and gives it the chewy texture.
  • Warm water: Helps activate the yeast and hydrate the flour.
  • Active dry yeast: Essential for giving the dough its airy rise.
  • Sugar: A touch helps feed the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness.
  • Salt: Balances the flavor and enhances the overall taste.
  • Olive oil: Used generously for richness and that signature crispy crust.
  • Fresh blueberries: Juicy and sweet, they bake into little flavor pockets.
  • Lemon zest: Adds brightness and an irresistible citrus aroma.
  • Honey (optional): A drizzle on top for extra sweetness and shine.
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How To Make the Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and salt, then add two tablespoons of olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface or using a stand mixer until smooth and elastic, about 5 to 8 minutes.

Step 2: Let It Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours, or until doubled in size. This step gives the bread its light, airy texture.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Coat a baking sheet or pan with olive oil, then press the dough into the pan using your fingers. Don’t worry about perfection—the dimples are part of the charm.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Press the blueberries gently into the dough and scatter lemon zest across the surface. Drizzle with more olive oil and a bit of honey if desired.

Step 5: Final Rise

Let the dough rest again for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats to 400°F (200°C).

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp at the edges. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

How to Serve and Store Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread

This Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread serves 8 to 10 people and is best served slightly warm. It’s wonderful on its own, but you can also pair it with mascarpone, clotted cream, or even a light lemon glaze for extra indulgence. If you’re hosting brunch, it makes an elegant side to savory egg dishes or yogurt parfaits.

To store, wrap it in parchment and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month. Reheat slices in a toaster oven for best results.

What to Serve With Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread?

Mascarpone or Whipped Cream Cheese

The creamy tang of mascarpone or whipped cream cheese is a dreamy pairing with this fruity bread.

Greek Yogurt and Honey

For a light breakfast, serve with a bowl of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey and a slice of this focaccia on the side.

Lemon Glaze Drizzle

A simple lemon glaze made with powdered sugar and lemon juice turns this into a delightful dessert.

Soft Scrambled Eggs

For a brunch spread, pair this with buttery scrambled eggs and some crispy bacon or sausage.

Fresh Fruit Salad

Balance the bread with a colorful fruit salad. Try strawberries, peaches, and mint for a summer twist.

Herbal Tea

Chamomile, mint, or a fruity tea blend enhances the citrusy notes of the focaccia.

Sparkling Wine or Mimosa

This bread has a celebratory feel and goes beautifully with a bubbly drink for brunch or baby showers.

Want More Sweet Bread Ideas?

If you loved this Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread, try these other flavorful bakes:

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can find it whenever the craving hits.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try it with raspberries or blackberries? Did you go heavy on the lemon zest or keep it subtle?

I love hearing your delicious variations! For more fruity, feel-good bakes, check out Janet Dishes on Pinterest.

Conclusion

Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread brings together rustic Italian bread and bright berry flavor in a way that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s simple enough for weekday baking and beautiful enough for weekend gatherings. With its lightly sweet crumb, juicy bursts of blueberry, and citrus zing, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen.

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Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread


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  • Author: Janet Reynolds
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8–10 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Lemon Blueberry Focaccia Bread recipe is a sweet and tangy twist on the classic Italian bread, made with fresh blueberries, zesty lemon, and a soft, airy dough. Perfect for brunch, snacks, or dessert, it’s a unique and easy homemade bread that’s bursting with flavor and makes a beautiful addition to any table.


Ingredients

1 cup warm water

2 teaspoons sugar

2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

4 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

1 tablespoon lemon zest

1 cup fresh blueberries

1 tablespoon honey (optional)


Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Stir in flour and salt, then add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the dough for 5–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.

5. Coat a baking sheet or pan with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Press dough into the pan, making dimples with your fingers.

6. Press blueberries gently into the dough and sprinkle lemon zest evenly across the top.

7. Drizzle with remaining tablespoon of olive oil and honey, if using.

8. Let the dough rest uncovered for 30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and crisp on the edges.

10. Cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

This focaccia is best served slightly warm with whipped cream cheese or mascarpone.

You can swap blueberries for raspberries or blackberries if desired.

For a sweeter finish, drizzle with lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Sweet Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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