Name: Lemon Blueberry Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 105 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 eggs; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons fresh grated lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup milk; 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (fresh preferred); 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries); 2 tablespoons butter (melted); 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Introduction to Lemon Blueberry Bread

Are you on the lookout for the perfect homemade treat that balances sweetness with a zesty kick? Lemon blueberry bread might just be your new favorite recipe! This delightful bread merges the tangy flavor of fresh lemons with the sweet juiciness of blueberries, creating a blissful experience with every bite.

What makes this bread even more appealing is its versatility. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at brunch, craving a cozy snack for yourself, or wanting to whip up something special for a friend, this treat fits the bill seamlessly. It’s wonderfully easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you likely have in your pantry.

For those who enjoy getting a bit creative in the kitchen, the lemon glaze that tops this bread adds an extra layer of flavor and elegance. A drizzle of this sugary lemon goodness can elevate your baking game to new heights! Trust us, once you try this recipe, you'll find yourself making it again and again. Curious to learn how to make this zesty treat? Let’s dive into the full recipe and instructions to create a loaf that will brighten anyone’s day!

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Key ingredients for baking success

Creating the perfect lemon blueberry bread is all about selecting the right ingredients. Not only do these components contribute to the flavor, but they also work together to ensure a delightfully moist and fluffy texture. Here’s what you need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your bread, offering the ideal structure. Opt for a good quality flour to help achieve that perfect rise.
Baking powder: This helps your bread rise by producing carbon dioxide when mixed with moisture and heat.
Salt: A pinch enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the sugar.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture. Melting it gives a lovely texture.
Granulated sugar: The sweetness complements the zesty lemon and tart blueberries.
Eggs: These provide moisture and bind the ingredients together.
Fresh lemon zest and juice: This is where the sunshine flavor shines through—fresh is always best!
Milk: Keeps the bread moist, while adding a subtle richness.
Blueberries: Fresh or frozen, these little gems bring bursts of flavor. Tossing them with flour before mixing helps to prevent them from sinking in the batter.

For more tips on how the right ingredients can transform your baking, check out this article on essential baking ingredients. Enjoy baking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Lemon Blueberry Bread

Making lemon blueberry bread at home is a delightful way to brighten up your day. This step-by-step guide will help you navigate through the process, ensuring that each bite is moist, tangy, and bursting with flavor. Let’s dive in!

Gather and prepare your ingredients

First things first—let’s gather everything you’ll need to avoid any mid-baking panic. Here’s your checklist:

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 (fresh is preferred)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for the blueberries)

For the glaze:

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

Once you have everything on your countertop, make sure you preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9"x 5" loaf pan with parchment paper for easy release.

Whisk together the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk them together until they are well mixed, ensuring there are no lumps hiding in your flour. This simple step helps the lemon blueberry bread rise beautifully and ensures an even texture. Set this dry mixture aside for now.

Create the batter mixture

Grab the bowl of your electric mixer and combine the melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix these on medium speed until you have a lovely, smooth blend. It’s okay if it’s a bit lumpy—it adds character! Now, slowly add in your dry mixture and milk in two alternating batches, mixing gently until just combined. You want to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense bread.

Incorporate the blueberries carefully

Rinse your blueberries (if using fresh) and toss them in a small bowl with a tablespoon of flour. This little trick will help suspend them in the batter and keep them from sinking to the bottom when baking. Gently fold the blueberries into your batter with a spatula, taking care not to crush them. It’s always fun to see those little bursts of color throughout your lemon blueberry bread!

Bake until golden and delicious

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. While the bread is baking, your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible citrusy aroma. Once baked, let it cool for about 30 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

And voilà! You’ve just made a delicious loaf of lemon blueberry bread. Add a quick glaze made from melted butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to finish it off (you’ll find the full glaze instructions with the recipe). Enjoy!

Variations on Lemon Blueberry Bread

Lemon Blueberry Bread with Almonds

For an extra crunch and nutty flavor, try adding slivered almonds to your lemon blueberry bread. Simply fold in ½ cup of toasted almonds along with the blueberries. The added texture pairs beautifully with the moist bread, delivering a delightful surprise in every bite. Not only do they enhance the flavor, but almonds also bring a dose of healthy fats and protein.

Lemon Blueberry Bread with Greek Yogurt

Looking for a twist that increases the lemon blueberry bread’s moisture? Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the milk in the recipe. This substitution not only keeps the bread deliciously tender but also boosts the protein content. Plus, the tangy flavor of Greek yogurt complements the lemon, creating a lively taste that’s hard to resist. Give it a try and discover a creamy, dreamy loaf that’s both satisfying and wholesome!

Exploring variations can transform your baking experience, allowing you to savor new flavors while sticking with a classic favorite.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Lemon Blueberry Bread

How to Achieve the Perfect Texture

To ensure your lemon blueberry bread has a delightful texture, follow these simple tips:

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature helps create a smooth batter, leading to a more tender loaf.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread due to gluten development.
Coat Blueberries in Flour: Tossing your blueberries with flour before adding them to the batter prevents them from sinking, allowing for evenly distributed bursts of flavor throughout the loaf.

For additional baking guidance, consider checking King Arthur Baking. Their expert tips can elevate your baking game!

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Pairing options for a delightful experience

Looking to elevate your lemon blueberry bread beyond simple enjoyment? Here are some fantastic pairing ideas that will delight your taste buds:

Spreadable toppings: A layer of cream cheese or whipped butter complements the tangy zest perfectly, adding a creamy, rich texture.
Fresh fruit: Consider serving with slices of citrus fruits like oranges or grapefruits to enhance the refreshing lemon flavors.
Beverage companions: Pair with iced tea, herbal tea, or even a refreshing herbal-infused lemonade. These beverages provide a thirst-quenching contrast to the sweet and tart bread.
Breakfast or brunch: Enjoy a slice alongside turkey bacon or chicken ham for a balanced meal, or serve it at a brunch gathering for a summery flair.

These options not only enhance the experience but will make your lemon blueberry bread the centerpiece of any table!

Time Breakdown for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Preparation Time
This delightful lemon blueberry bread takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Use this time to gather your ingredients and set the mood—maybe put on some tunes or brew a cup of tea!

Baking Time
Once in the oven, allow your bread to bake for 55-65 minutes. You’ll want to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean!

Total Time
In total, you're looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes, including cooling time. The tantalizing aroma of lemon and blueberries will definitely make the wait worthwhile!

For more detailed baking tips and techniques, check out this helpful resource on baking fundamentals.

Nutritional Facts for Lemon Blueberry Bread

When you indulge in a slice of lemon blueberry bread, it's good to know what's in it! Here’s a brief breakdown of its nutritional content:

Calories per slice

One slice of this delightful bread roughly contains around 180 calories. It’s a sweet treat that can easily fit into your daily caloric intake.

Protein content

With about 2 grams of protein per slice, this bread offers a modest boost. While not a protein powerhouse, it’s a deliciously light option for breakfast or snack time.

Sugar levels

Each slice has approximately 10 grams of sugar. This adds just the right amount of sweetness, making it an enjoyable dessert without being overwhelming.

For more nutritional tips and healthy alternatives, check out Healthline or Nutrition.gov for balanced eating advice. Enjoy baking and savoring your homemade lemon blueberry bread!

FAQs about Lemon Blueberry Bread

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! You can use frozen blueberries in your lemon blueberry bread without any problem. Just be sure to add them to the batter straight from the freezer to prevent them from releasing too much moisture. This will help retain that delicious flavor and texture you want in your loaf.

How to store leftover Lemon Blueberry Bread?
To keep your lemon blueberry bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for about 3 months!

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, try using mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce—both work well in quick bread recipes. Typically, ¼ cup of either can replace one egg. These alternatives not only keep your lemon blueberry bread moist but also add a hint of flavor that complements the lemon wonderfully.

Conclusion on Lemon Blueberry Bread

Baking lemon blueberry bread is not only a delightful kitchen experience but also results in a scrumptious treat perfect for any occasion. The tangy lemon pairs beautifully with the sweet blueberries, creating a moist, flavorful loaf. So gather your ingredients, and enjoy every slice of this memorable bread!