Lemon Blueberry Bread

Welcome to your new favorite baking adventure! This lemon blueberry bread is a burst of sunshine in every bite, combining the bright, citrusy tang of fresh lemons with juicy, sweet blueberries.

Perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or even dessert, this loaf is easy to whip up and impossible to resist. Its tender, moist crumb and vibrant flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread? Let’s dive in!

Recipe Overview

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This lemon blueberry bread is a quick bread that’s bursting with flavor. The zesty lemon glaze drizzled over the top enhances the soft, buttery texture, while the blueberries add pops of sweetness. It’s beginner-friendly, takes about 15 minutes to prep, and bakes in just over an hour. With simple ingredients and a forgiving recipe, it’s perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60–70 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 25 minutes

Ingredients List

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure for a tender, airy loaf.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the bread rise for a light texture.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture; room temperature ensures smooth blending.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and complements the tart lemon.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature: Binds ingredients and adds structure; room temp prevents curdling.
• Zest of 1 large lemon: Infuses bright, citrusy flavor throughout the batter.
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Amplifies the zesty kick.
• ½ cup whole milk: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
• 1 cup fresh blueberries: Juicy bursts of sweetness; frozen works too, but don’t thaw.
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries): Prevents sinking in the batter.

For the Lemon Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet glaze.
• 2–3 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Adjust for desired thickness; adds tangy brightness.

Note: Fresh lemons are key for vibrant flavor—avoid bottled juice for the best results. Room-temperature eggs and butter blend more smoothly, ensuring a consistent batter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures your bread slides out effortlessly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. This creates the base for your bread’s structure.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This incorporates air for a tender crumb.
4. Add Eggs and Lemon: Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Add lemon zest and 2 tbsp lemon juice, mixing until combined. The zest will speckle the batter with citrusy goodness.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add half the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Pour in the milk, then add the remaining dry ingredients. Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which keeps the bread soft.
6. Prep Blueberries: Toss blueberries with 1 tbsp flour in a small bowl. This prevents them from sinking. Gently fold them into the batter with a spatula, ensuring even distribution without crushing them.
7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil after 45 minutes.
8. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain its moist texture.
9. Make the Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar with 2–3 tbsp lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread for a glossy, tangy finish. Let set for 10 minutes before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid a dense loaf. Overmixing can make the bread tough.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; a few moist crumbs are okay, but wet batter means it needs more time.
• Use Fresh Blueberries: They provide the best flavor and texture, but frozen berries work in a pinch—just don’t thaw them to avoid excess moisture.
• Zest Carefully: Only zest the yellow part of the lemon peel; the white pith is bitter.
• Room-Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temp for a smoother batter and better rise.

Serving Suggestions

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Slice this lemon blueberry bread into thick pieces and serve it warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a hot cup of chamomile tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast. For a dessert twist, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Dust with powdered sugar for a pretty presentation, or serve with extra fresh blueberries on the side for a burst of color. It’s also a lovely addition to a brunch spread alongside yogurt parfaits or scrambled eggs.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
• Freezing: Wrap the unglazed loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then glaze before serving. Individual slices can be frozen for quick snacks.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen blueberries work well. Toss them in flour without thawing to prevent bleeding into the batter.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

How do I know if the bread is done?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely! The bread is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds an extra zesty kick.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is best for bright flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch—use high-quality brands.

Conclusion

This lemon blueberry bread is your ticket to a slice of pure joy! Its bright flavors and tender texture make it a must-try for any baking enthusiast.

Grab those lemons and blueberries, and let your kitchen fill with the scent of this delightful loaf. I’d love to hear how it turns out—share your creations in the comments or tag me on social media. Happy baking!