Are you ready to try something fresh and delightful? This Lemon Blueberry Bread blends zesty lemon with sweet blueberries, creating a perfect treat for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll learn how to make this tasty, moist bread in your own kitchen. Whether for breakfast or dessert, it’s sure to impress. Let’s dive in and bake a loaf that bursts with flavor!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bright Flavor: This lemon blueberry bread is bursting with fresh, zesty flavors that make it a delightful treat at any time of the day.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is simple and straightforward, perfect for bakers of all skill levels, from beginners to experts.
- Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the butter and fresh blueberries, this bread is incredibly moist, with a tender crumb that keeps you coming back for more.
- Versatile Serving: This bread can be enjoyed as a breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins and Glaze
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)
In this recipe, the balance of flavors is key. The dry ingredients create the base for our bread, making it fluffy and light. I use all-purpose flour for the best results. The baking powder and baking soda help the bread rise. A touch of salt enhances the taste.
The wet ingredients bring everything together. Softened butter makes the bread rich. Sugar adds sweetness. The eggs bind the mix and give it structure. Lemon zest and juice give the bread its bright flavor profile. Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth.
For the best results, I recommend using fresh blueberries. They burst with juice as they bake. If you use frozen ones, make sure to thaw and pat them dry first. The glaze is a simple mix of powdered sugar and lemon juice. It adds a tangy finish that makes each slice even more delightful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat & Prepare Baking Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy.
Combine Ingredients
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the blueberries gently.
Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 55-65 minutes.
Cool and Glaze
- Cool the bread in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack.
- For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread.
Tips & Tricks
Avoid Overmixing
When you mix the batter, stop when it looks a bit lumpy. This keeps the bread fluffy. If you mix too much, the bread can become tough and dense. You want a light texture that is soft and airy.
Blueberry Handling
Blueberries are delicate. When you add them, fold them in gently. This prevents crushing and helps keep your bread pretty. Whole blueberries look nice and taste amazing in every bite.
Proper Cooling
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This helps it set. Then, move it to a wire rack. Cooling it on the rack helps it cool evenly and prevents sogginess. Enjoy the lovely smell while it cools!
Pro Tips
- Choose Fresh Blueberries: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh blueberries when in season. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the batter.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and a more even rise.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread.
- Glaze Variations: Feel free to experiment with the glaze by adding different citrus juices like orange or lime for a twist on flavor.
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
You can make this bread gluten-free. Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. This swap keeps the taste and texture similar. Look for a blend that works for baking. It often includes rice flour and tapioca starch.
Vegan Option
If you want a vegan twist, replace the eggs. Use flax eggs instead. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This mix will act like an egg. Next, swap the butter with vegan margarine.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add poppy seeds for a nice crunch. Just a few tablespoons will do. This makes the bread fun and adds texture. Another option is to add almond extract. It gives a sweet and nutty flavor. Just a teaspoon will enhance the taste without overpowering the lemon.
Storage Info
Room Temperature
You can keep your lemon blueberry bread wrapped in foil or plastic wrap. It stays fresh for up to 3 days this way. If you love that soft texture, this method works best.
Refrigeration
For longer storage, move the bread to the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It can last up to a week in the fridge. Just remember that cold can change the texture a bit.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze slices in freezer bags. This way, it stays tasty for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove excess air from the bags. When ready to eat, just thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven.
FAQs
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
A toothpick inserted should come out clean. This is the best way to check. If it has wet batter, bake a few more minutes. The crust will be golden brown when ready.
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, thaw and pat dry before adding. Frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. They keep the bread moist and add a burst of flavor. Just make sure to fold them in gently to avoid crushing.
What can I serve with lemon blueberry bread?
Best paired with tea, coffee, or fresh fruit. This bread shines at breakfast or brunch. You can also enjoy it as a snack. A light drizzle of glaze adds a sweet touch.
This blog post shares a simple recipe for lemon blueberry bread. We covered each ingredient, step, and helpful tips to ensure success. You can make variations, like gluten-free or vegan, to suit your needs. Proper storage will keep your bread fresh.
In the end, baking this bread brings joy and delicious flavor to your table. Enjoy every slice!
