Lemon Blueberry Bread is a delightful treat that perfectly blends the tangy zest of lemon with the sweetness of fresh blueberries. Ideal for summer picnics, brunches, or simply as an afternoon snack, this bread is soft, moist, and topped with a luscious lemon glaze that makes it truly irresistible. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, this quick bread will surely impress family and friends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of tart lemon and sweet blueberries creates a refreshing flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile Delight: This lemon blueberry bread is great for breakfast, dessert, or even as a midday snack.
- Moist Texture: The use of milk and oil ensures that the bread remains soft and moist after baking.
- Beautiful Presentation: Drizzled with lemon glaze, this bread looks stunning on any table and is perfect for sharing.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your baking adventure, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×5-inch loaf pan: This size ensures even baking and helps achieve a perfect loaf shape.
- Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients prevents clumping and promotes thorough mixing.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for gently folding ingredients without overmixing, which keeps your bread light and fluffy.
Ingredients
Easy lemon blueberry bread with lemon glaze is soft, moist, and delicious. This quick bread with fresh blueberries and lemon is the perfect summer dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 + 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (200 grams)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk (120 grams)
– 1/3 cup vegetable oil (70 grams)
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 1 + 1/2 cups fresh blueberries, divided
– ½ cup icing sugar
– 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray oil to ensure easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
* Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, and salt.
* Whisk together until evenly distributed. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl:
* Whisk together milk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and the zest of one lemon. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients:
* Use a rubber spatula to mix until just combined.
* Do not overmix; some lumps are okay.
* Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh blueberries until evenly mixed.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
* Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of blueberries on top.
* Bake for about 55 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 6: Cool Down
Once baked:
* Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before inverting to remove the loaf.
Step 7: Serve with Lemon Glaze (Optional)
To prepare the glaze:
In a small bowl:
* Add icing sugar.
* Gradually mix in lemon juice until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed; it should be thick but pourable.
Drizzle over the cooled lemon blueberry bread before slicing. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Bread
Lemon blueberry bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a breakfast item, a snack, or a dessert, this bread is versatile and pairs well with several accompaniments.
With Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries for a burst of flavor.
- Sliced Bananas: The creaminess of bananas complements the tartness of the lemon.
With Whipped Cream
- Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop on top adds creaminess and balances the tangy lemon.
As Toast
- Toasted Slices: Lightly toast the bread for a crispy texture. This makes it perfect for spreading butter or cream cheese.
With Tea or Coffee
- Pairing with Beverages: Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
How to Perfect Lemon Blueberry Bread
Perfecting your lemon blueberry bread is easy with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.
- Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries provide better flavor and moisture compared to frozen ones.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to a dense loaf; mix just until combined.
- Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated accurately to ensure even baking.
- Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool before slicing to maintain its moist texture.
Best Side Dishes for Lemon Blueberry Bread
Lemon blueberry bread pairs wonderfully with side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits enhances the summer vibe.
- Cottage Cheese: Creamy cottage cheese offers a subtle flavor contrast and extra protein.
- Granola: Crunchy granola provides texture and can be sprinkled on top for added crunch.
- Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey over the bread adds natural sweetness and richness.
- Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on slices for added protein and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Lemon Blueberry Bread can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and flour. Stale ingredients can affect the rise and texture of your bread.
- Overmixing the batter: It’s crucial to mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of a light and fluffy Lemon Blueberry Bread.
- Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. Inaccurate measurements can throw off the balance of flavors and textures in your bread.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allow your bread to cool before slicing. This helps set the structure, resulting in cleaner slices that hold together better.
- Neglecting the glaze consistency: Aim for a smooth glaze that’s pourable but thick enough to coat. Adjust with more icing sugar or lemon juice as needed for the perfect consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Lemon Blueberry Bread in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Lemon Blueberry Bread
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Lemon Blueberry Bread
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bread for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat a slice for about 15-20 seconds on medium power. Be careful not to overheat, as it may dry out.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover it, and heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the best Lemon Blueberry Bread?
To achieve the best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. Also, use fresh blueberries for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I substitute other fruits in Lemon Blueberry Bread?
Absolutely! You can try raspberries, strawberries, or even cherries. Just adjust the amount accordingly based on sweetness and moisture content.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Lemon Blueberry Bread?
Consider adding lemon zest or experimenting with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. These additions can elevate the overall taste profile.
What is the best way to serve Lemon Blueberry Bread?
Serve it warm with a drizzle of lemon glaze or alongside fresh whipped cream. It’s also delightful as a breakfast item or afternoon snack!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Blueberry Bread is not only soft and moist but also bursting with refreshing flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different fruits or spices according to your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or part of breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful treat!
Lemon Blueberry Bread
Lemon Blueberry Bread is a delightful summer treat that harmonizes the zesty brightness of lemon with the sweetness of plump blueberries. This quick bread is incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for brunches, afternoon snacks, or even as a light dessert. Each slice is soft and moist, beautifully topped with a luscious lemon glaze that adds a burst of flavor. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this irresistible bread is sure to impress your family and friends.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1.5 cups fresh blueberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine milk, oil, egg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined; gently fold in 1 cup of blueberries.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with remaining blueberries.
- Bake for about 55 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling for 10–15 minutes before removing from the pan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use fresh blueberries for optimal taste. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and fluffy. For added flavor variations, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon.
