Name: Lemon Blueberry Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.33 cups unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); 2 teaspoons fresh grated lemon zest; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 0.5 cups milk; 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (preferably 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 (optional)

Introduction to Lemon Blueberry Bread

Have you ever experienced the delightful combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries in a bread that’s perfect for any occasion? If not, you’re in for a treat! Lemon blueberry bread is not just a delicious snack; it's a versatile homemade delight that works as a breakfast option, an afternoon pick-me-up, or even a dessert.

The balance of tangy lemon and juicy blueberries makes for a refreshing flavor explosion that awakens your taste buds. Plus, this bread is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Why not invite friends over for brunch and impress them with your baking skills?

Adding a light glaze at the end not only elevates the presentation but also enhances that lovely lemon flavor. Whether you choose to enjoy it fresh out of the oven or allow it to sit overnight, lemon blueberry bread promises to be moist, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.

So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into this simple yet scrumptious recipe. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of joy to your day, one slice at a time!

If you're interested in making homemade vanilla extract to elevate your baking, check out this homemade vanilla extract recipe.

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Crafting a delightful lemon blueberry bread is a straightforward process, and the magic begins with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delicious treat:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Commonly found in most kitchens, this forms the base of your bread.
1 teaspoon baking powder
This will help your bread rise beautifully.
1 teaspoon salt
Just a pinch enhances all flavors.
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
Brings richness; be sure it's unsalted for balance.
1 cup granulated sugar
Sweetness that complements the tart lemon and blueberries.
2 eggs
These add moisture and a fluffy texture.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
A subtle layer of flavor that makes everything better.
2 teaspoons fresh grated lemon zest
This is where the magic happens—fresh zest ensures vibrant citrus notes.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
More of that zesty goodness!
½ cup milk
For an ideal moist texture, reach for whole milk.
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
I recommend fresh for optimal flavor, but both work.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Lightly coating the blueberries prevents them from sinking.

These simple yet powerful ingredients come together to create a loaf that's both bright and flavorful. As you prepare, consider picking up some tips on enhancing your baking skills, like how to measure flour properly or the benefits of using fresh ingredients. Happy baking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Lemon Blueberry Bread

Creating a delicious lemon blueberry bread is not only a joy but also a way to fill your home with delightful citrusy aromas. Let's walk through the preparation process, and you’ll see just how simple it can be!

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Before diving into baking, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt.
Wet Ingredients: ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 eggs, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
Milk: ½ cup.
Blueberries: 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries (fresh is preferable!).

Don’t forget to preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9"x5" loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter. This will ensure that your bread comes out smoothly.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients beforehand is crucial. It ensures that your bread rises evenly and has a delightful texture.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In your electric mixer, combine the melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix these ingredients until they are well combined. The scent of fresh lemon will inspire you to create more delicious recipes!

Create the Batter

While your mixer is running, slowly add the dry ingredients and milk in two batches. Start with half of the flour mixture, then half the milk, followed by the remaining flour, and the final amount of milk. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as everything is just combined to ensure a light, fluffy bread.

Prepare the Blueberries

If you're using fresh blueberries, rinse them off and leave a bit of moisture on them. In a small bowl, toss the blueberries with a tablespoon of flour. This little trick helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of your lemon blueberry bread.

Fold Blueberries into the Batter

Gently fold the flour-coated blueberries into your batter using a spatula. Aim for a quick but careful combination, as you don’t want to break the berries.

Bake Your Lemon Blueberry Bread

Now comes the exciting part: pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool before glazing—this will help you achieve the perfect texture.

And there you have it—your step-by-step guide to crafting a delightful lemon blueberry bread! Enjoy every bite and consider experimenting with different fruits or flavors in future batches. Happy baking!

Variations on Lemon Blueberry Bread

If you're a fan of the classic flavors of lemon blueberry bread, you're in for a treat with these delightful variations!

Lemon Blueberry Muffins

Why not turn your loaf into a batch of lemon blueberry muffins? Simply adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes. Use a muffin tin lined with paper cups for easy serving. These muffins can be a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. For a little twist, try adding a streusel topping for added crunch and flavor.

Lemon Blueberry Bread with Nuts

For an extra layer of texture, consider mixing in some chopped nuts—like walnuts or pecans—into your lemon blueberry bread batter. Just fold in a half cup of your favorite nuts with the blueberries. This variation not only adds a delightful crunch but also complements the fruitiness of the blueberries beautifully.

Whichever variation you choose, you’ll be enjoying a slice of sunshine! For more ideas, check out this great resource on baking.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Lemon Blueberry Bread

When baking your lemon blueberry bread, a few simple tips can elevate your results! First, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature; this can make a significant difference in texture.

Berries Matter: If using frozen blueberries, don’t thaw them—just toss them in a bit of flour to avoid a purple mess in your batter.

Zesty Boost: Be generous with fresh lemon zest; it intensifies the flavor beautifully. For additional moisture, consider adding a splash of yogurt or sour cream to your mixture.

Lastly, remember to let your loaf cool completely before glazing it! For further baking insights, check out this fantastic resource on baking basics. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Lemon blueberry bread is delightful on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your experience. Here are some tasty serving suggestions:

For Breakfast: Enjoy a warm slice topped with a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese for a creamy contrast.
With Fresh Fruits: Serve alongside a bowl of mixed berries or a light fruit salad for a refreshing touch.
Coffee or Tea Companion: It’s perfect with your morning coffee or afternoon tea—just imagine sipping your favorite brew as you savor the sweet and tart flavors.

Consider making it part of a brunch spread or gifting it wrapped in a pretty dish towel for a thoughtful homemade gift!

Time Breakdown for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Preparation time

Get ready to bake! The preparation for this delicious lemon blueberry bread will take about 15 minutes. It’s just the right amount of time to zest the lemon, mix the ingredients, and get everything ready for the oven.

Baking time

Once you're prepped, the baking will take around 50-60 minutes. This is the perfect time to enjoy the delightful lemony aroma wafting through your kitchen as your loaf turns golden brown.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weekend baking session, this lemon blueberry bread is more than worth the wait! Enjoy it fresh from the oven or as a sweet treat throughout the week.

Looking for more tips? Check out this article on baking essentials for a smoother baking experience!

Nutritional Facts for Lemon Blueberry Bread

If you're looking to enjoy a slice of delightful lemon blueberry bread, you might be curious about its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories

Each slice has approximately 259 calories, making it a satisfying treat without overindulging.

Protein

This delicious loaf offers about 4 grams of protein, contributing to that full-feeling you want from a snack.

Sodium

With roughly 298 mg of sodium per serving, it keeps things in check while providing flavor.

As you indulge, consider that enjoying homemade treats like this one not only delights the palate but can fit nicely into a balanced diet when savored in moderation. Planning to bake your own? Check out our guide on vanilla extract to enhance those flavors!

FAQ about Lemon Blueberry Bread

Can I substitute frozen blueberries for fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries can be a great alternative for making lemon blueberry bread. Just remember to toss them in a bit of flour before adding them to your batter to help prevent sinking. This tip works wonders whether you’re using fresh or frozen berries.

How do I store leftovers?

If you find yourself with leftovers (which isn’t too likely because this bread is delicious!), store your lemon blueberry bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Just let it thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Can I make mini loaves of lemon blueberry bread?

Yes, you can! Dividing the batter into mini loaf pans is a fantastic idea. Just adjust the baking time—mini loaves typically require about 25-30 minutes in the oven. Plus, they make perfect gifts or are great for portion control!

Conclusion on Lemon Blueberry Bread

In summary, lemon blueberry bread is the perfect blend of bright citrus and sweet berries, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to impress your friends and family. Happy baking!