Blueberry Bread Recipe

You can't settle for a mediocre blueberry bread. This recipe delivers a moist, flavorful loaf that'll wow your taste buds. Bursting with fresh blueberries, it's a true delight. But what sets it apart is the careful balance of ingredients – from the creamed butter and sugar to the buttermilk addition. Discover how these elements come together to create a bread that's not just delicious, but also nutritious.

History

Although the origins of blueberry bread are unclear, it's believed to have emerged as a traditional recipe in North America, where the blueberry is native.

Ancient grains like barley and oats likely formed the foundation of early blueberry bread, which utilized the fruit for its natural sweetness and versatility in preservation.

As Native American tribes pioneered techniques for drying and storing blueberries, creative bakers incorporated the preserved fruit into quick breads, cakes, and pastries.

The vibrant color and tart-sweet flavor of blueberries complemented the nutty, slightly dense texture of these ancestral breads, establishing blueberry bread as a beloved regional specialty.

Recipe

Blueberry bread is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of fresh blueberries with a soft, fluffy bread. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a midday snack.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality, fresh blueberries. Blueberries not only add a burst of flavor but also a beautiful pop of color to the bread. Additionally, the use of buttermilk in the batter guarantees a tender, moist crumb that complements the juicy berries.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the buttermilk.

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the blueberries. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

For best results, use fresh, in-season blueberries. If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can sprinkle a tablespoon or two of sugar over the top of the batter before baking.

Additionally, you can experiment with adding a streusel topping or a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

Nutritional Guide

This blueberry bread not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a nutritional boost. The blueberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can help support a healthy immune system and promote overall well-being.

The whole wheat flour offers complex carbohydrates, while the eggs and yogurt contribute protein and calcium. An ingredient breakdown reveals that this recipe is a balanced combination of macronutrients, making it a wholesome choice.

The health benefits of this bread extend beyond its delicious flavor, making it a smart addition to your diet.

Final Thought

Ultimately, the blueberry bread offers a delightful and nutritious addition to your dietary regimen.

When baking this treat, keep a few tips in mind: use room temperature ingredients for ideal rise and texture, and consider ingredient substitutions like swapping in whole wheat flour or agave nectar to suit your preferences.

The end result is a moist, flavorful loaf that can enhance your day, whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or alongside a cup of tea.

With its wholesome blend of nutrients and simple preparation, the blueberry bread is a versatile and satisfying choice to incorporate into your culinary repertoire.