Lemon Blueberry Bread Recipe – Moist & Flavorful Quick Bread

This Lemon Blueberry Bread is a moist, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying quick bread that’s bursting with fresh, juicy blueberries and the bright zing of lemon. Topped with a sweet and tangy lemon glaze, it’s the kind of treat that works perfectly for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or just a casual afternoon snack with a hot cup of tea.

What’s truly wonderful about this recipe is how easy it is to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. Just a few simple ingredients and a loaf pan are all you need to create a beautifully golden loaf with a tender, moist crumb that’s dotted with blueberries in every bite. The combination of lemon and blueberries is a classic for a reason. The tartness of the lemon beautifully complements the natural sweetness of the blueberries, creating a balanced flavor profile that feels fresh and indulgent at the same time.

I remember the first time I made this Lemon Blueberry Bread. It was a chilly Saturday morning, and I was craving something comforting but also refreshing. After pulling this bread out of the oven and letting it cool just enough to apply the glaze, I cut into that first slice, and it was pure bliss. The bread was soft and buttery with juicy blueberries and a sweet yet tart lemony finish. From that day on, this recipe became a family favorite.

This recipe is also a great crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a brunch gathering, taking it to a potluck, or simply making it to enjoy at home, everyone will be asking for seconds. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is just irresistible. Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s go!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this Lemon Blueberry Bread will quickly become one of your go-to recipes. Here’s why:

1. Easy to Make: No complicated steps or fancy equipment. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
2. Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of tart lemon and sweet blueberries creates a harmonious and refreshing taste that feels both indulgent and light.
3. Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the melted butter and milk, the bread turns out incredibly soft and moist every single time.
4. Versatile Treat: Serve it for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a quick snack. It’s delightful no matter when you enjoy it.
5. Crowd-Pleasing Recipe: This bread looks beautiful and tastes even better, making it a fantastic option for special occasions or just because.
6. Customizable: Whether you like your bread with extra glaze or packed with more blueberries, it’s easy to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences.
7. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the bread a day in advance, and it tastes even better as the flavors have time to meld together.

Every time I bake this Lemon Blueberry Bread, I’m blown away by how such simple ingredients can create something so utterly delicious. Plus, it’s a guaranteed hit with family and friends.

Health Benefits

While this Lemon Blueberry Bread is undeniably a sweet treat, it does have some redeeming qualities thanks to the wholesome ingredients that contribute to its delightful flavor and texture.

1. Blueberries Are a Nutritional Powerhouse:
   Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress. They’re also rich in vitamins C and K, providing a good dose of immune-boosting and bone-strengthening nutrients. Plus, their natural sweetness allows for reduced sugar content in the recipe.
2. Lemons Provide Vitamin C:
   Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, a vital nutrient that supports immune function, skin health, and iron absorption. The fresh lemon juice and zest in this recipe add brightness to the flavor and deliver a little boost of nutrition.
3. Controlled Sugar Content:
   Compared to many baked goods, this bread uses a moderate amount of sugar. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar even more, you can experiment with sugar substitutes or reduce the sugar slightly without compromising the overall flavor.
4. Source of Healthy Fats:
   The use of melted butter in this recipe provides a rich, creamy texture and adds depth to the flavor. While butter is often labeled as unhealthy, in moderation, it offers beneficial fats and vitamins like A and D.
5. Satisfying and Filling:
   The combination of carbohydrates, fats, and protein makes this bread a satisfying choice that will keep you feeling full and energized. Pairing it with a protein-rich option like yogurt can turn it into a more balanced snack or breakfast.

While it’s still a treat, knowing that you’re getting some nutritional benefits from those fresh blueberries and lemon can make indulging feel a little more justified. Plus, homemade bread like this is far superior to store-bought alternatives loaded with preservatives.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes

Servings

This recipe makes 1 loaf (about 10 slices).

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 24g
• Vitamin C: 8% of Daily Value (DV)
• Calcium: 6% of DV
• Iron: 5% of DV

The above nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredients and may vary depending on specific brands or variations made to the recipe.

Ingredients List

For the Bread

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bread.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds moisture and richness to the bread.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread without overwhelming the lemon flavor.
• 2 eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor.
• 2 teaspoons fresh grated lemon zest: Adds vibrant lemony freshness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Brings tartness to balance the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup milk: Provides moisture and a tender crumb.
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries: Bursts of juicy sweetness throughout the bread.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating blueberries): Prevents the blueberries from sinking to the bottom.

For the Lemon Glaze

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Creates a rich and smooth glaze.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and tang to the glaze.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Balances the sharpness of the lemon juice.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat & Prepare Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it well to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside.

Combine Wet Ingredients

4. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar. Mix well until smooth.
5. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until fully incorporated.

Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

7. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture.
8. Mix just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Prepare Blueberries

9. If using fresh blueberries, rinse and pat them dry.
10. Toss the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.

Add Blueberries to Batter

11. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter with a spatula, being careful not to crush them.

Bake

12. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
13. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
14. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Cool the Bread

15. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes.
16. Remove the bread from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

Make & Apply Glaze

17. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
18. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread, allowing it to set before slicing.

Your Lemon Blueberry Bread is ready to be enjoyed! Now, let’s talk about how to serve and pair this delightful loaf.

How to Serve

This Lemon Blueberry Bread is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways depending on the occasion. Here are some of the best serving suggestions:

• As a Breakfast Treat: Serve warm slices with a spread of softened butter or a dollop of cream cheese. Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy morning ritual.
• Brunch Star: Arrange slices on a beautiful platter alongside fresh fruits, yogurt, and scrambled eggs for a well-rounded brunch spread.
• Dessert Delight: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra glaze for a decadent dessert.
• On-the-Go Snack: Wrap individual slices in parchment paper for a portable and satisfying snack.
• Gift-Worthy Goodie: Wrapped in parchment paper and tied with a ribbon, this bread makes a lovely homemade gift.

Whether you enjoy it plain or dressed up with extra goodies, this bread always hits the spot.

Pairing Suggestions

Choosing the right accompaniments can make this Lemon Blueberry Bread taste even better. Here are some perfect pairings:

• Beverages: Hot coffee, green tea, or a refreshing iced herbal tea with hints of mint or lemon complement the bread’s flavors beautifully.
• Fruit Toppings: Serve with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or even a fruit compote for a burst of natural sweetness.
• Savory Elements: Pair slices with a smear of goat cheese or cream cheese for a creamy, tangy contrast.
• Yogurt & Granola: Enjoy alongside a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt topped with crunchy granola for a balanced breakfast.
• Nut Spreads: Try it with almond butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of richness.

Pairing this bread with the right elements can elevate your experience from delightful to truly memorable.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Store leftover Lemon Blueberry Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Store it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, microwave them for about 10–15 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven for a few minutes.
• If reheating the entire loaf, wrap it in foil and place it in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes.

Following these guidelines will help you enjoy this bread even days or weeks later.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to dense, tough bread. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
2. Not Coating Blueberries: Skipping the step of coating blueberries with flour may cause them to sink to the bottom of the loaf.
3. Skipping the Cooling Process: Applying the glaze to a hot loaf will cause it to melt and run off. Let the bread cool completely before glazing.
4. Using Too Much Lemon Juice: While lemon flavor is key, too much juice can make the bread overly tart and affect the texture.
5. Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated to 350°F. Baking at a lower or higher temperature will affect the texture and bake time.

Pro Tips

1. Use Fresh Lemon Zest and Juice: Freshly grated lemon zest and squeezed lemon juice offer the best flavor.
2. Frozen Blueberries Are Okay: If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them. Toss them in flour and fold them in directly.
3. Use High-Quality Butter: For the best flavor, use good-quality unsalted butter.
4. Double the Glaze for Extra Sweetness: If you love a sweeter bread, make a double batch of the glaze.
5. Make It Ahead: This bread tastes even better the next day when the flavors have melded together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend will work well. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I use frozen blueberries?
Absolutely. Just make sure not to thaw them. Coat them with flour and fold them into the batter while still frozen.

What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the glaze?
You can make your own powdered sugar by blending granulated sugar in a high-speed blender until it reaches a fine consistency.

Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Yes, you can use melted coconut oil or vegetable oil for a slightly different flavor and texture.

How do I make the bread more lemony?
Increase the amount of lemon zest and juice slightly, or add a bit of lemon extract to intensify the flavor.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Lemon Blueberry Bread recipe truly delivers on all fronts—flavor, texture, and simplicity. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to whip up this beautiful loaf. The combination of fresh lemon zest, juicy blueberries, and a sweet, tangy glaze is a match made in heaven.

Now it’s your turn! Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. Your kitchen will be filled with the delightful aroma of baking lemon and blueberries before you know it. And when you do try it, make sure to come back and let me know how it turned out!

I’d love to hear if you added your own twist or if you simply enjoyed it as-is. Happy baking!

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