Lemon Blueberry Bread

Name: Lemon Blueberry Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Indulge in the delightful harmony of flavors with lemon blueberry bread. This moist and zesty loaf, bursting with fresh blueberries and a hint of citrus, is perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or a sweet dessert, it promises to brighten your day. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

1 cup fresh blueberries
1.5 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields one loaf, serving approximately 8 slices. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 50 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 200 calories, 8g fat, 30g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 1g fiber. This is based on a standard slice size of 1 inch thick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in lemon zest and juice, and vanilla extract.
In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
Gently fold in the blueberries to avoid breaking them.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute fresh blueberries with frozen ones; just ensure they are not thawed before mixing. For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and a plant-based butter alternative. Additionally, you can replace granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Serving and Pairings

Lemon blueberry bread pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s also delicious alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Storage and Reheating

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense bread.
Not greasing the pan properly may cause sticking.
Using cold eggs can affect the batter consistency.
Not measuring ingredients accurately can alter the outcome.
Skipping the lemon zest diminishes flavor.

Helpful Tips

For added sweetness, drizzle a lemon glaze on top after baking.
Ensure the blueberries are evenly distributed in the batter.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing.
Experiment with adding nuts for extra texture.
Use organic lemons for a more vibrant flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blueberries can be used. Just add them directly to the batter without thawing to prevent them from sinking.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has a binding agent for the best results.

Can I add nuts to the bread?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans complement the flavors well. Just fold them into the batter gently.

What’s the best way to serve lemon blueberry bread?

It can be served plain, or topped with lemon glaze, whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert.

How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done. If it has wet batter, continue baking.

Conclusion

Lemon blueberry bread is a delightful treat that brings together the refreshing zing of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries. Perfect for any time of the day, this easy-to-follow recipe will soon become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite of this moist, flavorful loaf!