Blueberry Lemon Bread Slices
Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Collection
I absolutely love making Blueberry Lemon Bread Slices, as the combination of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon creates an irresistible flavor that brightens my day. The process is quite simple, and I find joy in the warm aroma that fills the kitchen while baking. These bread slices are moist, packed with juicy blueberries, and offer a delightful citrus twist that’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat. Once you try them, I promise you will crave this delicious blend of flavors again and again!
When I first experimented with Blueberry Lemon Bread, I was amazed at how well the flavors complemented each other. The brightness of the lemon juice combined with the natural sweetness of the blueberries creates a delightful balance. I remember my first bite and how the lemony freshness elevated the classic blueberry bread experience.
What really sets this recipe apart is using fresh blueberries instead of frozen. This small detail ensures each slice bursts with flavor and the bread retains its moist texture. I also love adding a simple glaze that enhances the overall sweetness while making it visually appealing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Fresh blueberries create juicy bursts in every bite
- Bright lemon zest adds a refreshing twist
- Perfectly moist texture thanks to a secret ingredient
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to achieving the perfect texture in your Blueberry Lemon Bread lies in the combination of dry and wet ingredients. The all-purpose flour provides structure, while the granulated sugar and butter contribute to a moist crumb. It’s essential to use softened butter at room temperature; this helps create a light and fluffy batter when creamed with sugar. If you forget to take your butter out early, a quick 10-second burst in the microwave can soften it without melting.
Using fresh blueberries is crucial for this recipe. They release juices during baking, resulting in those delightful bursts of flavor throughout the bread. If fresh blueberries aren’t available, you can substitute with frozen ones, but it’s important to add them straight from the freezer to prevent the batter from turning blue. This small trick helps maintain the brightness of the bread’s appearance.
Perfecting the Baking Process
Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so it’s important to start checking the bread around the 45-minute mark. When the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, it’s done. If the edges seem golden but the center is still wet, you can cover the loaf loosely with foil to prevent over-browning while it finishes baking. Allowing the bread to cool briefly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its structure.
After baking, the glaze adds an extra layer of flavor that ties everything together. Be sure to drizzle it onto the bread once it has cooled enough not to melt. The glaze should be pourable but not too runny. If it seems too thick, add a teaspoon of lemon juice at a time until you reach the desired consistency, enhancing that zesty flavor that complements the blueberries beautifully.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups blueberries
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Mix all the dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them for a perfect texture.
Instructions
Instructions
Prep the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Incorporate Eggs
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Combine Wet Ingredients
Stir in milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice until just combined.
Blend Together
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in blueberries.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Make the Glaze
While the bread is baking, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
Cool and Glaze
Once baked, allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread.
Slice and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit for an extra treat!
Pro Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter. Make sure to gently fold in the blueberries to avoid crushing them.
Storage Tips
To keep your Blueberry Lemon Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its life, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but it may affect the texture. If you notice any dryness, consider warming a slice in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that soft, moist quality before enjoying it.
For long-term storage, this bread freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can keep frozen slices for up to three months. To thaw, simply place the slices in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave for a quick defrost—just be careful to avoid overheating.
Serving Suggestions
Blueberry Lemon Bread is versatile and can be served in various settings. For a delightful breakfast, pair it with a side of yogurt and a sprinkle of granola for added crunch. Alternatively, serve it with a fresh fruit salad to enhance that fruity flair. It’s also a wonderful afternoon snack, especially with a cup of tea or coffee.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider toasting the bread lightly before serving. A touch of butter on warm slices can elevate the flavor, creating a comforting contrast to the refreshing lemon notes. This bread also makes a lovely gift when wrapped beautifully, perfect for sharing with friends and family on special occasions.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to prevent extra moisture.
→ How should I store the bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
→ What can I use instead of milk?
You can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy alternative for a vegan option.
Blueberry Lemon Bread Slices
I absolutely love making Blueberry Lemon Bread Slices, as the combination of fresh blueberries and zesty lemon creates an irresistible flavor that brightens my day. The process is quite simple, and I find joy in the warm aroma that fills the kitchen while baking. These bread slices are moist, packed with juicy blueberries, and offer a delightful citrus twist that’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat. Once you try them, I promise you will crave this delicious blend of flavors again and again!
Created by: Juliet Ashford
Recipe Type: Favorite Baking Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 slices
What You'll Need
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups blueberries
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice until just combined.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in blueberries.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While the bread is baking, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
Once baked, allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread.
Extra Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter. Make sure to gently fold in the blueberries to avoid crushing them.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 3g