Blueberry Lemon Bread Slices
Highlighted under: Sugar Bliss
I love baking, especially when it comes to fresh, fruity recipes like these Blueberry Lemon Bread Slices. The sweet and tangy combination of blueberries and lemon creates a delightful flavor that is absolutely irresistible. Each slice is moist and tender, making it perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With the simplicity of this recipe, I can whip up this delicious bread and enjoy the warm, intoxicating smell filling my kitchen. Trust me, this treat will become a family favorite!
When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how the fresh lemon juice and zest complemented the blueberries. By adding the zest, the bread not only gains a hint of citrus but also a wonderful aromatic quality. One tip I discovered is to toss the blueberries in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter; this prevents them from sinking to the bottom and ensures an even distribution in every bite!
Making the Blueberry Lemon Bread Slices has become one of my go-to bakes. Not only is it straightforward, but you can easily customize it by adding nuts or a crumb topping for an extra layer of texture. I often recommend serving it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of lemon glaze to enhance the flavors even more.
Why You'll Love These Bread Slices
- A perfect balance of sweetness and tartness
- Moist and fluffy texture in every slice
- Versatile for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
The Role of Ingredients
In this Blueberry Lemon Bread recipe, each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour provides the bread structure, while the granulated sugar not only sweetens but also helps create a tender crumb. Using fresh blueberries is key; they burst beautifully during baking, infusing the bread with their natural sweetness and vibrant color. Opting for unsalted butter allows you to control the overall salt level, ensuring the balance between the sweet blueberries and tart lemon is just right.
Lemon zest and fresh lemon juice are essential in this recipe; they brighten the flavor and add a delightful aroma. The acidity in the lemon juice also helps activate the baking soda, contributing to the bread's rise. Alternatively, if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be used, but know that fresh ingredients yield the best flavor. Additionally, for dietary restrictions, consider substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it's one designed for baking. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.
Baking Tips for Success
When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Gently folding the ingredients together until just combined will prevent the bread from becoming tough. A few lumps are perfectly fine! To achieve a moist texture, avoid opening the oven door during the first half of the baking time. Instead, use the toothpick test starting around the 50-minute mark; inserting it into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil after the first 30 minutes.
After baking, allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This slight cooling period helps maintain the bread’s structure and prevents it from breaking apart. If you have any leftovers, store the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage. When freezing, slice the bread first for easy thawing. Just pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a quick treat!
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream Butter and Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth, then add the eggs, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra lemony flavor, consider making a lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice to drizzle over the cooled bread.
Serving Suggestions
These Blueberry Lemon Bread Slices are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any time of day. For a delightful breakfast, feel free to top a slice with a pat of butter or a light spread of cream cheese. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar over the top for a touch of sweetness, making it an elegant choice for brunch gatherings. Pair it with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea to enhance those citrus flavors.
If you want to elevate this recipe even further, consider adding a lemon glaze. Simply whisk together powdered sugar with a bit of lemon juice until smooth and drizzle it over the cooled loaf. The added sweetness from the glaze complements the tartness of the lemon perfectly. For a unique twist, try incorporating nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
Variations to Try
While the blueberry and lemon combination is a classic, don't hesitate to experiment with different fruits! Raspberries or blackberries can be used in place of blueberries, providing their own unique twist. You can also blend fresh herbs like basil or mint into the batter for an unexpected flavor layer that pairs well with the citrus. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds alongside the lemon zest for a delightful crunch and aesthetic appeal.
For those who enjoy a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract along with the vanilla. This subtle change can create a deeper, more complex profile. Additionally, think about incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy undertone, especially during the cooler months. Each variation will provide a new take on this beloved bread, perfect for keeping things interesting!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries; just make sure to toss them in flour to prevent them from turning the batter purple.
→ How should I store the bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and bake two loaves at once.
→ What can I serve with this bread?
This bread pairs wonderfully with butter, cream cheese, or even a cup of tea or coffee.
Blueberry Lemon Bread Slices
I love baking, especially when it comes to fresh, fruity recipes like these Blueberry Lemon Bread Slices. The sweet and tangy combination of blueberries and lemon creates a delightful flavor that is absolutely irresistible. Each slice is moist and tender, making it perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With the simplicity of this recipe, I can whip up this delicious bread and enjoy the warm, intoxicating smell filling my kitchen. Trust me, this treat will become a family favorite!
What You'll Need
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth, then add the eggs, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra lemony flavor, consider making a lemon glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice to drizzle over the cooled bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 170mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 3g