Lemon Blueberry Bread
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Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful blend of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries, this Lemon Blueberry Bread is the perfect treat. This moist and delicious bread is packed with juicy blueberries and a refreshing lemon flavor that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s for breakfast, a mid-day snack, or dessert, this recipe is truly versatile and perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Here’s everything you need to make this delicious Lemon Blueberry Bread. Make sure to gather your ingredients beforehand to keep the process smooth.
flour: 1 ¾ cups
sugar: 1 cup
baking powder: 1 teaspoon
salt: ¼ teaspoon
blueberries: 1 cup (fresh or frozen)
lemon zest: 1 tablespoon
eggs: 2 large eggs
milk: ½ cup
vegetable oil: ⅓ cup
lemon juice: 3 tablespoons
vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Prep Time
This Lemon Blueberry Bread comes together quickly thanks to its simple preparation. Prepping takes approximately 15 minutes, during which you’ll combine dry and wet ingredients, mix them together, and fold in those sweet blueberries. Don’t forget to preheat your oven to ensure your loaf bakes evenly.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for this Lemon Blueberry Bread is about 1 hour, allowing the loaf to bake to golden perfection. Adding the prep time, the total time for this recipe is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. This recipe yields one 9×5-inch loaf, making it ideal for sharing with family or friends—or saving for later!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare Your Baking Tools
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing with cooking spray or butter, and line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients
– In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients
– In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, eggs, and oil until well combined.
– Add the sour cream, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
– Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in 2-3 additions, mixing gently by hand with each addition. Avoid overmixing.
– Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Transfer Batter and Bake
– Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula or spoon.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
– If the top of the loaf starts browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent overbrowning.
Cool and Finish
– Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients
– Make sure to use room temperature eggs and sour cream for the best mixing and baking results.
Frozen Blueberries Option
– You can use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones, but do not thaw them before adding to the batter, as this could release extra moisture.
Lemon Zest Tips
– Use a microplane grater for zesting the lemon and avoid grating the white pith, as it can leave a bitter taste.
Storage Suggestions
– The lemon blueberry bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Glazing Option
– If desired, you can drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the bread for added sweetness and flavor. Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and drizzle over the cooled loaf.
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Cook Techniques
Mixing Batter Properly
To achieve a tender and moist bread, mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough bread.
Using Fresh Lemon Juice and Zest
Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor. Be sure to zest the lemon before juicing it, as it is much easier to handle this way.
Incorporating Blueberries
When adding blueberries, gently fold them into the batter to avoid breaking them and turning the batter blue.
Preparing the Pan
Grease and line the loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent the bread from sticking and to allow for an easier release.
Proper Baking Techniques
Bake in the center of the oven for consistent heat distribution. Check the bread with a toothpick to ensure it’s fully baked. The bread is ready when the toothpick comes out clean or with a few crumbs, but no wet batter.
Cooling Time
Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before removing it. This helps it set and maintain its structure.
FAQ
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Do not thaw them before adding to the batter. Toss them in a little flour to help prevent sinking during baking.
How do I prevent blueberries from sinking to the bottom?
Coating the blueberries in a small amount of flour before folding them into the batter can help prevent them from sinking.
Can I substitute the lemon with another citrus?
Yes, you can substitute lemon with other citrus like orange or lime. However, the flavor profile will change accordingly.
How should I store the bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Can I freeze Lemon Blueberry Bread?
Yes, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep for up to 3 months.
Why is my bread dry or crumbly?
Dryness or crumbliness can result from overbaking or using too much flour. Measure ingredients accurately and check for doneness as per instructions.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, although the texture may differ slightly.
Can I make mini loaves instead of one large loaf?
Yes, you can divide the batter into smaller loaf pans. Adjust the baking time accordingly and start checking for doneness earlier.
Conclusion
Lemon Blueberry Bread is a delightful combination of tangy lemons and sweet blueberries, offering a moist, flavorful treat that is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-day snack. Its balance of citrus and berries makes it a versatile and refreshing choice that can please a variety of palates. With its easy-to-follow recipe, this bread is a crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Lemon Raspberry Bread
Replace blueberries with fresh raspberries for a tart yet sweet twist on this beloved recipe. Their vibrant red hue and distinct flavor pair beautifully with the tanginess of the lemon.
Orange Blueberry Bread
Swap lemon juice and zest with orange juice and zest to create a citrusy, sweet loaf. The combination of blueberries and oranges will bring a mellow yet rich flavor to every bite.
Mixed Berry Bread
Use a mix of your favorite berries—such as strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries—along with the blueberries. This medley adds an array of textures and flavors, making the bread even more enticing.
Glazed Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes
Transform the batter into cupcake molds for an individual serving treat. Top with a tangy lemon glaze or a cream cheese frosting for added indulgence.
Lemon Blueberry Muffins
Turn the recipe into muffins for a quicker baking option and a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
Blueberry Oat Bread
Incorporate rolled oats into the batter for a slightly nutty texture and flavor. This variation also makes the bread heartier and even more satisfying.
Lemon Poppy Seed and Blueberry Bread
Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds into the batter to introduce a slight crunch and nutty complexity while keeping the lemon and blueberry combination intact.
Almond Lemon Blueberry Bread
Mix in slivered almonds or almond extract to the recipe for a nutty undertone that complements the zesty lemon and sweet blueberries perfectly.
Lemon Blueberry Bundt Cake
Double the recipe and pour the batter into a bundt pan for an elegant dessert. Drizzle a lemon glaze or powdered sugar on top for an attractive presentation.
Coconut Lemon Blueberry Bread
Incorporate shredded coconut into the bread for a tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the citrus and berry profile. Add a coconut glaze for extra indulgence.
