Lemon Blueberry Bread Recipe

There's nothing quite like a slice of freshly baked lemon blueberry bread, with its light and airy crumb, bursts of juicy blueberries, and the bright zing of lemon. This bread is as delightful for breakfast as it is for an afternoon snack, pairing perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. It's quick to whip up and even quicker to disappear once it's out of the oven!

this Recipe

This recipe has become a family favorite in my household, especially during blueberry season. The aroma of lemon and blueberry baking together fills the kitchen, making it hard to wait until it's cool enough to slice. Let’s dive into what makes this bread so special!

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Bread

Get ready to fall in love with this easy-to-make, irresistibly moist lemon blueberry bread. Here’s why it’s bound to become your new go-to recipe.

First, it's bursting with fresh, bright flavors. Lemon zest and fresh blueberries create a perfect balance of tart and sweet, making every bite a little taste of summer.

Not only does this bread taste incredible, but it also comes together with minimal effort. With simple ingredients you probably already have, it’s a great option for when you need a quick baked treat.

Plus, this bread is versatile! Whether you prefer to make it as a loaf, mini loaves, or even muffins, this recipe adapts easily to fit your needs. You can even use frozen blueberries if fresh aren’t available.

Finally, it stores beautifully. Make it ahead, freeze a loaf for later, or just keep it fresh for a few days for the perfect grab-and-go snack.

Ingredients Notes

The ingredients for this lemon blueberry bread are simple, yet they work together to create an exceptionally flavorful and moist loaf. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Flour: Regular all-purpose flour is the base of this recipe, creating a light yet sturdy loaf. For a softer texture, sift your flour before measuring.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar provides just the right amount of sweetness, balancing the tartness of the lemon and blueberries.
• Lemon Zest and Lemon Juice: The real star here! Fresh lemon zest adds an intense citrus flavor, while the juice keeps the bread moist. Be sure to zest your lemons before juicing to get the most out of them.
• Blueberries: Fresh blueberries are ideal for this recipe, but you can use frozen if needed. If using frozen berries, toss them in a bit of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf.
• Eggs: Eggs help bind the bread together, adding structure and richness. Bring them to room temperature for best results.
• Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: This is the secret to keeping the bread super moist. Greek yogurt or sour cream adds a slight tang and a creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents work together to give the bread a beautiful rise and fluffy texture.

For equipment, a 9x5-inch loaf pan works best for this recipe. You’ll also need a grater for the lemon zest and a mixing bowl.

How To Make This Lemon Blueberry Bread

Creating this delicious lemon blueberry bread is straightforward and fun. Follow these steps for a perfect loaf every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9x5-inch loaf pan. This ensures that your bread will bake evenly and release easily from the pan.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and lemon zest. Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar, releasing all those fragrant lemon oils. This step is key to infusing the bread with lemon flavor.

Next, add the eggs, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and lemon juice to the sugar mixture. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth. Then, slowly incorporate the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt, mixing just until no streaks of flour remain.

Gently fold in the blueberries. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense and cause the blueberries to burst. If you’re using frozen blueberries, remember to dust them lightly with flour to prevent sinking.

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

After cooling, drizzle with a simple lemon glaze (optional). Mix powdered sugar and a bit of lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle over the top for an extra burst of lemony sweetness.

Storage Options

This lemon blueberry bread stores wonderfully, making it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.

• Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cool before sealing to avoid trapping moisture.
• Refrigerator: If you want it to last a bit longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The bread will stay moist and flavorful.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bread. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, fresh-from-the-oven taste.

Variations and Substitutions

This lemon blueberry bread is already fantastic, but here are a few ways to change it up and make it your own:

• Mixed Berries: Try adding a mix of berries like raspberries or blackberries for a fun twist and burst of color.
• Lemon Poppy Seed: For a more classic flavor, add a tablespoon of poppy seeds to the batter. It gives a delightful crunch and pairs perfectly with lemon.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. The bread will still be tender and moist.
• Lemon Glaze or Cream Cheese Frosting: A simple lemon glaze adds a sweet, tangy finish, but you can also top this bread with a thin layer of cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.
• Coconut-Lemon Blueberry Bread: Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist. Coconut pairs beautifully with both lemon and blueberries.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this bread your own! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your unique spin on it, this lemon blueberry bread is sure to be a hit every time. Enjoy every bite!

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