Lemon Blueberry Quick Bread
Highlighted under: Modern Baking Collection
I absolutely love making this Lemon Blueberry Quick Bread whenever I want a delightful treat that's bursting with flavor. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a wonderful balance that brightens my day. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, which is perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. Each slice is moist, fluffy, and absolutely irresistible. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
When I first created this Lemon Blueberry Quick Bread, I was inspired by the bright summer flavors we all love. I experimented with different ratios of lemon to blueberries, finally settling on a combination that lets both flavors shine without overpowering each other. One tip I learned is to fold the blueberries gently into the batter; this way, they don’t burst and make a mess, ensuring each slice is visually appealing as well as delicious.
What truly makes this bread special is the addition of fresh lemon zest, which elevates the flavor profile. Paired with a sprinkle of coarse sugar on top, this bread not only tastes amazing but looks beautiful too. Whether served for breakfast or as a snack, I always get compliments when I bring this to gatherings or share it with friends; it’s that good!
Reasons to Love This Lemon Blueberry Quick Bread
- Deliciously tangy flavor paired with sweet blueberries.
- Perfectly moist texture that keeps well for days.
- Quick and easy recipe that doesn't require special equipment.
The Role of Key Ingredients
In this Lemon Blueberry Quick Bread, each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour provides the necessary structure, while the granulated sugar not only sweetens but also contributes to the moisture of the bread. The combination of baking powder and salt helps the bread rise evenly, resulting in a light and fluffy crumb.
Lemon zest is essential for providing that zesty brightness that balances the sweetness of the blueberries. Without it, the bread may taste flat and lacking in character. Additionally, using fresh blueberries ensures bursts of flavor in every bite, while frozen blueberries can also work if fresh ones are unavailable; just be sure to toss them in flour to prevent them from sinking during baking.
Baking Tips for Success
When mixing your batter, remember that overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Stir until just combined; you should see some flour streaks remaining. This technique will ensure a tender crumb that isn't tough. Also, allow your melted butter to cool slightly before adding the eggs. If the butter is too hot, it could cook the eggs, resulting in an unsatisfactory texture.
During baking, keep an eye on your loaf as ovens may vary. It's done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, loosely cover the top with aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make this delightful quick bread:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Lemon Blueberry Quick Bread:
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, and salt until well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and lemon zest.
Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Add Blueberries
Gently fold in the blueberries to prevent them from breaking.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Lemon Blueberry Quick Bread!
Pro Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh blueberries and add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest for a more pronounced lemon flavor.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
This Lemon Blueberry Quick Bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container, making it perfect for enjoying throughout the week. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
To serve, slice the bread once it has completely cooled. Drizzling a simple lemon glaze over the top can enhance the citrus flavor or consider serving it with cream cheese spread for an added creamy texture. Pair your slices with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
Variations to Explore
Easily customize this quick bread with additional mix-ins. Consider adding grated ginger or poppy seeds for an unexpected twist on flavor. For a nutty crunch, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans along with the blueberries. If you're looking for a richer taste, substitute half of the milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra moisture and tanginess.
For a seasonal variation, try incorporating lemon-lavender or lemon-vanilla extracts for a gourmet touch. Just a teaspoon can elevate the bread to a new level without overpowering the original flavors. Experiment with these variations to find your perfect blend of flavors!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, frozen blueberries will work well, but do not thaw them beforehand to prevent the batter from turning blue.
→ How should I store the bread?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
→ Can I substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
→ What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover bread can be toasted for breakfast or served with butter and jam for a delicious snack.
Lemon Blueberry Quick Bread
I absolutely love making this Lemon Blueberry Quick Bread whenever I want a delightful treat that's bursting with flavor. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a wonderful balance that brightens my day. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, which is perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. Each slice is moist, fluffy, and absolutely irresistible. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your kitchen!
Created by: Ophelia Turner
Recipe Type: Modern Baking Collection
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 slices
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
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, and salt until well combined.
In another bowl, mix together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and lemon zest.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the blueberries to prevent them from breaking.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Extra Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh blueberries and add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest for a more pronounced lemon flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 33g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g