Name: Lemon Blueberry Bread
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 units eggs; 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons fresh grated lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 0.5 cup milk; 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (I used fresh); 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries); 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 0.5 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract

Introduction to Lemon Blueberry Bread

Lemon blueberry bread is a delightful fusion that combines tangy citrus with juicy berries, creating an irresistible treat that feels both comforting and refreshing. Perfectly moist and bursting with flavor, this quick bread is an excellent companion for breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack. Imagine slicing through a warm loaf, its zesty aroma wafting through your kitchen—it's a sensory experience that you won’t forget!

Why is lemon blueberry bread a must-try?

One reason to embrace lemon blueberry bread is the unexpected harmony between tart and sweet. The bright flavor of fresh lemon zest harmonizes wonderfully with the blueberries, transforming an ordinary loaf into something special. Not to mention, the vibrant color of blueberries adds visual appeal, making it perfect for gatherings or a casual brunch with friends.

Moreover, the recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adapt it by adding nuts like pecans for extra crunch or using Greek yogurt for added moisture. Want to ensure a slice will become a staple in your home? Serve it alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea, and watch it disappear!

Ready to try this delectable loaf? Let's dive into the full recipe and create a treat that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Creating lemon blueberry bread starts with gathering the right ingredients to ensure your loaf is undeniably delicious and moist. Here’s what you'll need for this delightful treat:

All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups, the foundation of your bread's texture.
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon, for that perfect rise.
Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance all the flavors.
Unsalted butter: ⅓ cup, melted, lending richness and moisture.
Granulated sugar: 1 cup, providing just the right sweetness.
Eggs: 2 large, to bind everything together.
Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon, for a touch of warmth.
Fresh grated lemon zest: 2 teaspoons, which adds that bright citrus flavor.
Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons, boosting the loaf's tartness.
Milk: ½ cup, helping to achieve a tender crumb.
Fresh or frozen blueberries: 1 cup (fresh preferred for a burst of flavor).
Extra flour: 1 tablespoon, to keep those blueberries from sinking.

Lemon Glaze Ingredients

Don't forget the glaze! You'll need:

Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted.
Powdered sugar: ½ cup, for sweetness.
Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons, tying everything together with a zesty finish.
Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon, to round out the flavors.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting this delectable lemon blueberry bread. Trust us, once you bake this loaf, it's sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Step-by-step Preparation for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Making a delightful lemon blueberry bread is not only easy but also incredibly rewarding. With its zesty flavor and sweet blueberries, this loaf is perfect for any occasion, whether you're baking for a brunch or just treating yourself! Let’s walk through the preparation step-by-step.

Gather your ingredients

Before you dive into the mixing bowls, it’s essential to gather all your ingredients. This will streamline your baking process and help ensure you have everything you need at your fingertips. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
⅓ cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons fresh grated lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ cup milk
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries)

For the glaze, make sure you also have:

2 tablespoons melted butter
½ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Prepare the dry ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9"x 5" loaf pan with parchment paper. This will make for easy removal later. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. It's crucial to ensure these dry ingredients are well combined, as they contribute to the structure of your lemon blueberry bread. Set this mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients.

Create the batter

In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Gradually add the dry flour mixture and milk in two batches—starting with some of the flour, followed by milk, then the remaining flour, and finally the last of the milk. Remember to stop mixing as soon as you see everything combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine for a moist loaf.

Fold in the blueberries

Now comes the fun part! Rinse your blueberries (if they're fresh) and toss them with 1 tablespoon of flour in a small bowl. This simple trick helps prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom of your bread. Gently fold these floured blueberries into your batter using a spatula, taking care not to over-mix.

Bake the lemon blueberry bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and pop it in the oven! Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before moving it to a wire rack. To finish, whisk together your glaze ingredients and drizzle it over the loaf for that extra zing. Enjoy warm or at room temperature—your friends and family will love it!

With this step-by-step guide, you’re all set to create a delicious lemon blueberry bread that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!

Variations of Lemon Blueberry Bread

Lemon Blueberry Muffins

Looking to switch things up? Try transforming the lemon blueberry bread into delightful muffins! Simply follow the same batter recipe, but pour it into a muffin tin instead of a loaf pan. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. These muffins are perfect for a quick breakfast or a sweet snack on the go.

Lemon Blueberry Bread with Walnuts

For those who enjoy a little crunch, consider adding chopped walnuts to your lemon blueberry bread. Simply fold in ½ cup of walnuts when you add the blueberries. The nuts provide a satisfying texture that complements the moist, tangy loaf beautifully. Plus, walnuts pack a punch of omega-3 fatty acids, making your treat a bit healthier!

If you’re hunting for more creative twists, you can always experiment with different spices or toppings—like a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of lemon curd—making each slice uniquely yours!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Creating the perfect lemon blueberry bread is all about balancing flavors and achieving that ideal texture. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your baking experience:

Choose Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are the stars of this recipe. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in your batter.
Zest it Right: When you’re zesting your lemons, aim for the bright yellow part only—this zest is where the flavor lies!
Don’t Overmix: To keep your bread light and fluffy, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so check for doneness 5 minutes before the suggested time by inserting a toothpick.

Following these tips will ensure that your lemon blueberry bread turns out delicious every time!

For more baking guidance, visit King Arthur Baking for expert advice.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Lemon blueberry bread is perfect for any occasion, and a few thoughtful serving suggestions can elevate your experience. Enjoy a warm slice alongside a steaming cup of herbal tea or a refreshing glass of lemon-infused water to complement its bright flavors.

For a delightful breakfast, serve it toasted with a pat of butter or a dab of cream cheese. If you're hosting brunch, consider pairing it with fresh fruit or a light salad for balance.

For dessert, drizzling a touch of extra lemon glaze can add that perfect finishing touch. Check out this fruit salad idea that could accompany your lemon blueberry bread beautifully!

Time Breakdown for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Preparation Time
Getting ready to bake this delightful lemon blueberry bread takes just 25 minutes. It’s the perfect time to gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and line your loaf pan.

Cooking Time
You’ll be in the tempting aroma of your kitchen for about 1 hour and 5 minutes as the bread bakes. Patience is key, but it’ll be so worth the wait!

Total Time
In only 1 hour and 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious loaf of lemon blueberry bread ready to enjoy. This quick treat is perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack! For more baking tips, check out The Kitchn for extra inspiration.

Nutritional Facts for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Calories

Each slice of this delightful lemon blueberry bread contains an average of 259 calories. Perfect for a satisfying treat without going overboard on calories, making it an ideal choice for dessert or brunch!

Carbohydrates

With about 44 grams of carbohydrates per slice, this bread is a good source of energy. The blend of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon unfolds a flavor profile that pairs beautifully with morning coffee or an afternoon tea.

Protein

Each slice offers approximately 4 grams of protein, contributing to its overall nutritional value. While it might not be a protein powerhouse, pairing it with Greek yogurt or a nut butter can boost your intake while enhancing flavor!

Feel free to share your own variations or favorite pairings in the comments below! For more delicious tips and tricks, check out this guide on healthy eating.

FAQs about Lemon Blueberry Bread

How do I know when the bread is done?

To ensure your lemon blueberry bread is perfectly baked, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Also, look for a golden-brown crust and a slight dome shape. If you're unsure, it’s better to check a few minutes early than risk overbaking!

Can I freeze lemon blueberry bread?

Absolutely! This delightful bread freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. You can freeze it for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature — ready to slice and savor!

What if I don’t have fresh blueberries?

If fresh blueberries aren’t available, don’t fret! You can easily substitute with frozen blueberries — just toss them in flour to prevent sinking. Alternatively, consider using dried blueberries or even chopped strawberries for a delicious twist on the classic lemon blueberry bread.

Conclusion on Lemon Blueberry Bread

In conclusion, this delightful lemon blueberry bread is the perfect blend of citrusy zest and juicy berries, making it an irresistible treat. Whether enjoyed as breakfast, a snack, or dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Share it with friends and savor every bite!