The Best Lemon Blueberry Bread Recipe – Bright and Flavorful

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Introduction

Lemon Blueberry Bread is a refreshing and delicious dessert that combines the tartness of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries, making it a perfect treat for any time of day. Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this recipe will bring a pop of flavor to your kitchen. Here, we’ll walk through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to ensure you bake the perfect loaf every time.

Ingredients

Each ingredient in Lemon Blueberry Bread plays a role in creating the right balance of flavors and texture. Here’s what you’ll need for both the bread and the lemon glaze:

For the Bread

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender loaf with structure.
  • 1 tsp baking powder: This helps the bread rise, making it fluffy.
  • 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the bread.
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread while contributing to its structure.
  • 2 large eggs: Acts as a binding agent and adds moisture.
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest: Infuses the loaf with bright, lemony flavor.
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Adds tanginess that complements the blueberries.
  • 1/2 cup milk: Provides moisture for a tender crumb.
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries (tossed in 1 tbsp flour to prevent sinking): The main attraction, offering sweet, juicy bursts in every bite.

For the Lemon Glaze

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet glaze.
  • 1-2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (adjust for desired thickness): Thins the glaze while enhancing lemon flavor.

Directions and Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Loaf Pan

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bread bakes evenly.
  2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. Parchment makes it easy to lift the bread out after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Combining these ingredients first prevents clumps and distributes the baking powder evenly.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

  1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate.

Step 4: Add Lemon Flavor

  1. Add the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice to the butter mixture. Stir well to blend the flavors thoroughly.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined for a tender crumb.

Step 6: Fold in the Blueberries

  1. Gently fold in the blueberries using a spatula, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can break the berries, causing them to bleed into the batter.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  2. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the amount of lemon juice for your desired glaze thickness.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

  1. Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
  2. Drizzle with lemon glaze and enjoy!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?

  • Yes, frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. Just ensure you toss them in flour before folding into the batter, and add them while they’re still frozen to prevent them from bleeding too much into the batter.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

  • Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

3. What is the best way to store Lemon Blueberry Bread?

  • Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to three months.

4. Why did my blueberries sink to the bottom?

  • Coating the blueberries in flour before folding them into the batter helps prevent them from sinking. It’s also essential not to overmix the batter once the blueberries are added.

5. Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?

  • Yes, you can. However, the fresh lemon juice and zest provide the most vibrant lemon flavor. If you use extract, use sparingly to avoid an overpowering flavor.

Conclusion

This Lemon Blueberry Bread is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The tangy lemon pairs beautifully with the sweet blueberries, creating a treat that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Perfect for brunch, as an afternoon snack, or as a gift for friends and family, this recipe is one you’ll want to make over and over again. Enjoy the bright and vibrant flavors of summer with each slice of this delightful bread!

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