lemon blueberry bread

Craving a burst of fresh, zesty flavor? Lemon blueberry bread is the perfect treat to brighten your day.

This moist, tender loaf combines the tang of lemon with the sweetness of blueberries, all topped with a luscious lemon glaze.

enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or a sweet finish to any meal, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients List

Creating a delicious lemon blueberry bread requires a few key components to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s break down the ingredients needed for each element of this delightful loaf.

Bread Ingredients

• 1 1/2 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 (I used fresh)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries)

Lemon Glaze

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Required Kitchen Tools

When preparing lemon blueberry bread, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:

1. Mixing Bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
2. Electric Mixer or Whisk: To blend the batter until smooth and well combined.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.
4. 9″x5″ Loaf Pan: The ideal size for baking this bread.
5. Parchment Paper or Butter: To line or grease the loaf pan for easy removal.
6. Wire Cooling Rack: For cooling the bread after baking.
7. Small Bowl: For tossing blueberries with flour.
8. Whisk: For preparing the lemon glaze.

Bread Preparation

Preparing the batter for lemon blueberry bread is a simple process that ensures a moist, flavorful loaf every time. Follow these steps for the best results.

Mixing the Ingredients

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9″x5″ loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Blend Wet Ingredients:
   In the bowl of an electric mixer (or using a hand whisk), blend together the melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
4. Incorporate Dry and Wet Mixtures:
   With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture and milk in two batches—start with half the flour mixture, then half the milk, followed by the remaining flour and milk. Mix just until everything is combined; do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

Preparing the Blueberries

5. Coat the Blueberries:
   If using fresh blueberries, rinse them so they have a bit of moisture. In a small bowl, toss the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour. This helps prevent the berries from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.
6. Fold in the Blueberries:
   Gently fold the flour-coated blueberries into the batter by hand, using a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir just enough to distribute the berries evenly.

Baking and Glazing the Bread

Baking your lemon blueberry bread to golden perfection and finishing it with a tangy glaze is what makes this loaf truly irresistible. Follow these steps for best results.

Baking the Bread

1. Transfer Batter to Pan:
   Immediately pour the prepared batter into your lined or greased 9″x5″ loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top for even baking.
2. Bake:
   Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55–65 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
3. Cool:
   Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 30 minutes. Then, carefully lift the bread out of the pan (using the parchment paper, if used) and transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Place a baking sheet or parchment underneath the rack to catch any glaze drips.

Preparing and Adding the Lemon Glaze

A sweet-tart lemon glaze adds a beautiful finish and extra burst of citrus flavor.

4. Make the Glaze:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable.
5. Glaze the Bread:
   While the bread is still slightly warm (but not hot), pour the glaze evenly over the top of the loaf. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving and Decoration

When it comes to serving and presenting your lemon blueberry bread, a few thoughtful touches can make this simple loaf truly special. Here are some ideas to elevate your bread and delight your guests:

Suggested Toppings and Presentation

• Extra Lemon Zest: Sprinkle a little fresh lemon zest over the glaze for a pop of color and extra citrus aroma.
• Fresh Blueberries: Garnish the top of the loaf or each slice with a few fresh blueberries for a beautiful, bakery-style look.
• Powdered Sugar: For a classic finish, dust the cooled loaf lightly with powdered sugar.
• Whipped Cream or Yogurt: Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a more decadent treat.

This bread is delicious served slightly warm or at room temperature, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.

Storage Instructions

Lemon blueberry bread stays moist and flavorful for days if stored properly. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

How to Store Lemon Blueberry Bread

• Room Temperature:
  Store the cooled bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration:
  For longer storage, refrigerate the bread for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature or gently warm slices before serving for best flavor and texture.

Freezing Lemon Blueberry Bread

• To Freeze:
  Wrap the cooled, unglazed loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To Serve:
  Thaw overnight at room temperature. If desired, add the glaze after thawing for a fresh finish.

Conclusion

Mastering lemon blueberry bread brings a taste of sunshine to your kitchen any time of year. With its tender crumb, bright lemon flavor, and juicy bursts of blueberry, this loaf is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

The simple lemon glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness and tang, making each slice irresistible. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a sweet ending to a meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delightful combination of lemon and blueberry in every bite!