Introduction to Lemon Blueberry Bread
If you're a busy professional juggling deadlines, meetings, and the hustle and bustle of life, making time for home-cooked goodies can feel like a challenge. That’s where homemade lemon blueberry bread comes to the rescue! This deliciously moist bread combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the sweet burst of blueberries, making it a perfect pick-me-up any time of day.
Imagine walking into your kitchen, the scent of lemon and berries wafting through the air while you enjoy a moment of tranquility before diving into your work. Lemon blueberry bread is not just a treat; it’s an experience. Easy to prepare and perfect for batch cooking, it can serve as a delightful breakfast or a satisfying snack. You can enjoy a slice on your busy mornings or share it with colleagues to boost team morale.
Want to elevate your culinary repertoire while keeping it simple? This recipe is customizable too! Whether you’re using fresh or frozen blueberries, you can adapt it to fit your pantry. So, let’s get started on this fantastic journey to fruity bliss with lemon blueberry bread!
Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Bread
Gathering the essentials for a delicious loaf
To whip up a delightful lemon blueberry bread, you'll want to gather a few key ingredients that will create a burst of flavor with every slice. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Bread:
- Flour: 1-½ cups plus 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour, which provides a light and fluffy texture.
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons to help your bread rise perfectly.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon to enhance the flavors.
- Greek yogurt: 1 cup for moisture and tang—feel free to swap it with sour cream if you prefer.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup for sweetness that balances the tartness of the lemons.
- Oil or butter: ½ cup of oil or softened butter to enrich the loaf.
- Eggs: 3 large eggs act as a binding agent.
- Lemon zest: 1 teaspoon for that citrus zing.
- Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon adds depth to the flavors.
- Blueberries: 1 heaping cup (fresh or frozen) for those juicy bursts.
For the Glaze (Optional):
- Powdered sugar: 1 cup for sweetness.
- Fresh lemon juice: 3-4 tablespoons to create a bright finish.
This combination is sure to bring joy to your kitchen and your taste buds—happy baking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Lemon Blueberry Bread
Preparing lemon blueberry bread in your own kitchen can be incredibly rewarding, and it's easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to create a deliciously moist loaf that’s bursting with flavor.
Preheat your oven and prepare the loaf pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly. While the oven is heating, grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan and give it a generous greasing with oil or butter. You can also use parchment paper for a smoother release when your bread is done baking. Ensuring that your pan is ready now saves you from any last-minute scrambling later!
Mix the dry ingredients together
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 1-½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial because it evenly distributes the leavening agent and helps create a uniform texture in your lemon blueberry bread. Using a whisk instead of a spoon can make the process more effective. If you want to know more about baking tips, check out sources like King Arthur Baking for additional resources.
Combine your wet ingredients seamlessly
In a larger bowl, you'll combine the sweetness of 1 cup of granulated sugar with ½ cup of oil (or softened butter). Beat them together until smooth. Next, add in 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 3 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of lemon zest, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure everything is fully incorporated, as this will contribute to the moist texture of your loaf.
Fold in the dry ingredients and blueberries
Now it's time to marry your dry and wet ingredients. Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet mix using a spatula. Be gentle; overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. In a separate bowl, toss 1 heaping cup of blueberries in 1 tablespoon of flour (this helps prevent them from sinking). Add them to your batter, folding them in gently. Don’t forget to reserve a few blueberries to place on top of the batter before baking for that appealing look!
Bake to perfection for a golden finish
Once everything is combined, pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 55 minutes to an hour. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling time is essential and contributes to the perfect texture of your lemon blueberry bread.
And there you have it! With just a few straightforward steps, you’re on your way to enjoying a delightful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any occasion. Feel free to drizzle a glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice on top for an extra touch!
Variations of Lemon Blueberry Bread
Lemon Blueberry Muffins
If you love the taste of lemon blueberry bread but want a grab-and-go option, why not try making lemon blueberry muffins? Simply prepare the batter as instructed and scoop it into a standard muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes for fluffy, citrusy delights that are perfect for breakfast or a snack. Trust me, they’ll become a morning favorite!
Berry Substitutes: Raspberries and Blackberries
Feeling adventurous? Swap out blueberries for raspberries or blackberries for a delightful twist. Both options add a unique tartness that complements the lemon beautifully. Experimenting with different berries can make your lemon blueberry bread or muffins a personal signature dish. Who knew baking could be so versatile? For more berry inspiration, check out this guide on berry types.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Lemon Blueberry Bread
High Altitude Adjustments
If you're baking this delicious lemon blueberry bread at a high altitude, you may need to tweak the recipe a bit. Adding an extra 2 tablespoons of flour helps counteract the lower air pressure and ensures your loaf rises beautifully without collapsing.
Freezing for Later Enjoyment
Want to savor your lemon blueberry bread later? No problem! Once cooled completely, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or let it sit at room temperature until ready to slice. A treat that’s always within reach!
Serving Suggestions for Lemon Blueberry Bread
Pairing with Tea or Coffee
There's nothing quite like savoring a slice of lemon blueberry bread alongside your favorite tea or coffee. The bright, citrusy notes of the lemon and the sweetness from the blueberries create a delightful contrast that perfectly complements a hot cup. Try pairing it with an herbal tea, such as chamomile or a refreshing iced coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Perfect for Brunch Gatherings
Hosting a brunch? Impress your friends with this delicious lemon blueberry bread. It’s an ideal centerpiece for any brunch spread, offering a refreshing and sweet option that pairs beautifully with savory dishes like farmer's eggs or turkey bacon. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a charming touch, making it not just tasty but visually appealing too!
So, grab a loaf, slice it up, and enjoy making memories with great food and company!
Time Breakdown for Lemon Blueberry Bread
Preparation time
Get ready to enjoy this delicious lemon blueberry bread in just 15 minutes! Gather your ingredients and measure everything out for a seamless baking experience.
Baking time
Once your batter is mixed, it’s time to bake! Let that lovely loaf sit in the oven for about 55 minutes to 1 hour. Keep an eye on it; it’ll be golden brown and fragrant.
Total time
In just under 1 hour and 15 minutes, you'll have a scrumptious lemon blueberry bread ready to share (or keep all to yourself!). Don’t forget to allow for cooling time before you dive in!
For more baking tips, check out this helpful guide on mastering quick breads. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Lemon Blueberry Bread
When indulging in this delightful lemon blueberry bread, it's good to know what you're enjoying. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutrition:
Calories
Each slice packs approximately 384 calories, making it a substantial treat that's perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Protein
Offering around 7 grams of protein, this bread can help fuel your day, especially with the addition of Greek yogurt.
Sodium
With 288 mg of sodium per slice, it remains well within a balanced range, allowing you to savor each bite without worries.
For more information on the health benefits of blueberries and yogurt, check out sources like Healthline and WebMD.
Enjoy this tasty lemon blueberry bread while feeling confident about your choices!
FAQ about Lemon Blueberry Bread
Can I use frozen blueberries in the recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries are a great option for your lemon blueberry bread. Just make sure to toss them in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking. There's no need to thaw them; simply use them straight from the freezer for the best results.
How long will the bread last?
Your delicious lemon blueberry bread can be stored at room temperature for about 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container. To extend its freshness, consider refrigerating it for up to a week. If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the bread for up to three months. Just remember to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture!
What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, no worries! You can substitute it with sour cream or plain yogurt, which will work just fine. These alternatives will still give the bread that moist, tender texture we all love. Additionally, you could use buttermilk for a slightly different flavor profile!
For more baking tips and similar recipes, check out this resource on yogurt substitutes.
Conclusion on Lemon Blueberry Bread
In summary, lemon blueberry bread is a delightful treat that harmonizes bright citrus with sweet berries. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack, breakfast, or dessert. Try it today, and you'll experience the joy of baking something simple yet spectacular. Enjoy every bite!
Lemon Blueberry Bread
Equipment
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour divided
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup oil or softened butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest from 1 lemon
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 heaping cup blueberries fresh or frozen
For the Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
Bread Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease well the bottom and sides of a 9×5" loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, beat sugar and oil (or softened butter) until well combined. Add yogurt, eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla.
- Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet, just until incorporated. In a separate bowl mix the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour and then gently fold them into the mixed batter.
- Pour the batter into the pan and bake for 55 minutes – 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Glaze (Optional)
- Whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice and drizzle over the top of the cooled loaf.
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