Lemon Blueberry Bread Recipe

This Lemon Blueberry Bread is a delightful fusion of tangy lemon zest and sweet blueberries, creating a harmonious blend that’s like a burst of summer in every bite. Perfect for any time of the day, whether you’re serving it as a breakfast treat, a sweet afternoon snack, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. The moist, fluffy texture and the vibrant flavors make this quick bread a true crowd-pleaser. With its simplicity and deliciousness, it’s an ideal recipe for both seasoned bakers and those just starting out in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons fresh grated lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (toss with 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour before adding to the batter)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients and milk in two batches to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being patient and not overmixing.

5. Add Blueberries: Fold in the lemon zest and blueberries. Make sure not to overmix, as you want to preserve the texture of the blueberries.

6. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Bake the Bread: Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If needed, cover the bread with foil to prevent overbrowning.

8. Cool the Bread: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes, then remove it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Make the Glaze (Optional): Combine 2 tablespoons of melted butter, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl. Whisk until combined and drizzle over the cooled bread.

Top Tips:

1. Measure Flour Properly: To ensure the right texture, make sure to properly measure the flour by loosening it in the container, spooning it into the measuring cup, and then leveling it with the back of a knife.

2. Toss Blueberries with Flour: Before adding the blueberries to the batter, toss them with a tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.

3. Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

4. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the eggs and butter, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

5. Let it Cool Completely: Resist the temptation to slice the bread immediately. Letting it cool completely will help the flavors meld together and the texture become even more moist.

6. Adjust Lemon Zest: If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, you can increase the amount of lemon zest to 3 or 4 teaspoons.

Variations:

1. Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute if you need to avoid gluten.

2. Brown Sugar Addition: Add 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar to balance out the sweetness and add a deeper flavor.

3. Lemon Extract: Use lemon extract instead of lemon zest for a more intense lemon flavor.

4. Greek Yogurt: Replace milk with Greek yogurt for a tangier and creamier texture.

5. Sour Cream Addition: Add 1/4 cup of sour cream to enhance the moisture and flavor of the bread.

6. Different Types of Sugar: Experiment with different types of sugar like cane sugar or honey to change the flavor profile.

Nutritional Guide:

Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is relatively low in fat and high in carbohydrates, making it a good option for those looking for a sweet treat without excessive calories. The blueberries provide a boost of antioxidants and fiber, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing and zesty flavor. For a healthier version, consider using less sugar or substituting it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.