Name: Lemon Blueberry Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 0.75 teaspoon sea salt; 0.5 cups cane sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 0.75 cups whole milk Greek yogurt; 0.5 cups extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for the pan); 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1.5 cups blueberries (fresh or frozen); Lemon glaze (optional, for serving)

Introduction to Lemon Blueberry Bread

If you're looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every bite, then lemon blueberry bread is your new go-to recipe! This beautiful loaf is not only visually appealing with its vibrant blueberries and sunny lemon zest, but it also delights the palate with a perfect balance of flavors. It’s soft, moist, and bursting with fresh berries, making it an ideal choice for breakfast or a mid-day snack.

Why Lemon Blueberry Bread?

You might be wondering, why lemon blueberry bread? The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a flavor harmony that’s hard to resist. The tartness of the lemons complements the juicy bursts of blueberry, making your taste buds dance with joy. Plus, the bright color of this loaf is sure to elevate any brunch table or coffee gathering.

Whether you enjoy it plain or with a simple lemon glaze drizzled on top, there’s no doubt that this bread is a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. It’s perfect for meal prep, as it lasts well for several days, making those busy mornings just a little sweeter. Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get baking!

Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Baking lemon blueberry bread is a delightful experience, and gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward your delicious loaf. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Flour & Rising Agents
1½ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
2 teaspoons baking powder
¾ teaspoon sea salt
Sweetness & Flavor
½ cup cane sugar for that perfect sweetness
1 tablespoon lemon zest to add freshness
1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a hint of warmth
Moisture & Texture
¾ cup whole milk Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil keeps it moist (plus a little extra for greasing your pan)
2 large eggs to bind everything together
Star Ingredient
1½ cups blueberries, fresh or frozen—this is what makes your bread truly shine!
Optional Topping
Consider a lemon glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.

Make sure to get the freshest blueberries for the best flavor! Interested in more tips for selecting the perfect fruit? Check out this guide for some helpful advice. Happy baking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Lemon Blueberry Bread

Making lemon blueberry bread is a delightful way to brighten your day with a burst of flavor! Let’s walk through the simple steps to create this delicious loaf, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Gather your ingredients

First and foremost, gather all your ingredients in one place. This not only streamlines your cooking process but also makes it more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

1½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
¾ teaspoon sea salt
½ cup cane sugar
1 tablespoon lemon zest
¾ cup whole milk Greek yogurt
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups blueberries (fresh or frozen)
Lemon glaze (optional)

Having everything ready and at hand makes it easier to stay focused on the joy of baking. If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of each ingredient, check out resources like the USDA Food Data Central.

Mix the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sea salt. This is a crucial step as sifting these dry components helps to ensure that your lemon blueberry bread has a light and fluffy texture. Make sure there are no lumps, and set this mixture aside for later.

Combine wet ingredients

Now, let’s move to the wet ingredients! In a large bowl, combine cane sugar and lemon zest. Use your fingers to mix these, as this helps release the aromatic oils from the zest, creating a beautifully fragrant foundation for your bread. Next, whisk in the Greek yogurt, olive oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well incorporated—the mixture should be smooth and creamy.

Fold in the blueberries

Time for the star of the show! Gently fold in the blueberries into your wet mixture, ensuring they are distributed evenly. Take care not to overmix here; the batter may become too dense if handled roughly.

Remember, fresh blueberries will provide a burst of juicy flavor, but frozen blueberries can work just as well. Make sure the blueberries are coated with the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

Bake to perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it into your preheated oven at 350°F and bake for about 40 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and you can check for doneness with a toothpick—when it comes out clean, you’re good to go!

Once baked, let your lemon blueberry bread cool completely before you remove it from the pan. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle on some lemon glaze for an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy every slice, whether plain or glazed!

For additional baking tips and resources, consider visiting King Arthur Baking. Happy baking!

Variations on Lemon Blueberry Bread

Let’s have some fun with your lemon blueberry bread! This delightful loaf is super versatile, and a few tweaks can elevate your baking game.

Add nuts for a crunch

Want to add a satisfying crunch? Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into your batter. About half a cup should do, giving your bread a lovely texture. Not only does this enhance the flavor, but it also adds some nutritional benefits, such as healthy fats and protein.

Experiment with other fruits

While blueberries shine in this recipe, don’t hesitate to swap them out with other fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or even diced peaches. Mixing and matching can create unique flavor profiles, keeping your lemon blueberry bread fresh and exciting! If you're feeling particularly adventurous, consider adding some citrus segments for a zesty twist. For more fruit pairing ideas, check out this fruit compatibility guide.

Your kitchen adventures await—enjoy baking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Lemon Blueberry Bread

When baking your lemon blueberry bread, the freshness of your ingredients truly matters. Opt for in-season blueberries for the best flavor; if using frozen ones, don't thaw them to prevent discoloration in the batter.

Also, consider adding a splash of lemon juice to boost that zesty kick. If you want an extra luscious texture, let the Greek yogurt sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing.

Finally, don’t skip the cooling step! Letting it cool completely in the pan helps maintain that perfect shape for slicing. For more baking tips, check out sources like King Arthur Baking.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Blueberry Bread

This delicious lemon blueberry bread offers versatility beyond a simple loaf. Here are some delightful serving ideas to enhance your experience:

Breakfast Delight: Serve slices warm alongside a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea. The zesty lemon perfectly complements breakfast flavors.
Lush Toppings: Try spreading a thin layer of cream cheese for a rich, tangy addition. You can also drizzle extra lemon glaze for a sweet finish.
Pair with Protein: Enjoy a slice with turkey bacon or chicken ham for a balanced brunch that keeps you satisfied.
Sweet Treat on the Go: Slice and individually wrap portions for a quick snack or dessert.

Each bite is sure to brighten your day! For more delicious blueberry recipes, be sure to check out this source for inspiration.

Time Breakdown for Lemon Blueberry Bread

Cooking can seem intimidating, but breaking it down helps! Here’s a quick overview of the Lemon Blueberry Bread baking process:

Preparation Time

In just 15 minutes, you’ll have all your ingredients measured and mixed, ready for the oven.

Baking Time

Give it 40 to 50 minutes in the oven for that perfect rise and golden crust.

Total Time

You’ll spend roughly 1 hour from start to finish, including cooling time before serving. Perfect for a cozy weekend morning!

If you're looking to make it a little sweeter, consider adding a simple lemon glaze! For more tips and variations, check out resources like Food Network or BBC Good Food. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Lemon Blueberry Bread

When making lemon blueberry bread, it's essential to know what you're putting into your body. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile to help you make informed choices.

Calories

A single slice of this delightful bread contains approximately 150-180 calories, making it a satisfying yet relatively healthy treat.

Protein

One serving offers about 3-4 grams of protein. Pair it with a Greek yogurt or a nut butter spread for a protein boost to start your day!

Sugar

This recipe calls for about 8-10 grams of sugar per slice, primarily from the cane sugar and the natural sweetness of blueberries. Opt for plain yogurt or omit the glaze to reduce sugar intake while still enjoying the vibrant flavors.

For more details on nutrition, you can check the USDA's FoodData Central for comprehensive information on ingredients. Enjoy your baking!

FAQs about Lemon Blueberry Bread

Can I use frozen blueberries?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work wonderfully in this lemon blueberry bread recipe. Just be sure to toss them in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking. Plus, using frozen berries means you can enjoy this delicious bread year-round!

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, fear not! You can use regular yogurt, sour cream, or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt. Each substitution might slightly alter the flavor and moisture, but your lemon blueberry bread will still be delightful!

How do I store leftover bread?

To keep your lemon blueberry bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it or freezing individual slices. Just remember to add a little cream cheese spread or a drizzle of lemon glaze when you serve it again — it elevates the flavors! For more tips on storing baked goods, check out this helpful guide on storing bread properly.

Conclusion on Lemon Blueberry Bread

Baking this lemon blueberry bread brings a delightful blend of tartness and sweetness that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying a cozy breakfast or sharing it with friends, this loaf makes every moment a little brighter. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s truly a treat worth indulging in!