Few baked goods offer the refreshing burst of citrus and the juicy sweetness of blueberries quite like Lemon Blueberry Bread. This moist and flavorful quick bread is the perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Topped with a simple lemon glaze, this loaf is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner looking for a fail-proof recipe, this Lemon Blueberry Bread delivers a light, fluffy texture with bursts of fresh blueberries in every bite. In this article, we’ll explore why this recipe works so well, essential baking tips, variations, storage methods, and answer some of the most commonly asked questions about this delightful quick bread.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Bread
1. The Perfect Texture: Moist, Tender, and Light
Thanks to the combination of butter, eggs, and milk, this quick bread has a delicate crumb that stays soft and moist for days. The blueberries add natural juiciness, while the lemon zest enhances the overall flavor.
2. Bright, Refreshing Citrus Flavor
Lemon adds a natural brightness that balances the richness of the bread. By incorporating fresh lemon juice and zest, this recipe ensures a tangy depth that enhances the sweetness of the blueberries.
3. Quick and Easy to Make
Unlike traditional yeast breads, this quick bread requires no proofing or waiting. Simply mix the ingredients, bake, and enjoy! It’s a great choice for busy mornings, last-minute guests, or meal prep.
4. A Beautifully Balanced Sweetness
The natural tartness of the lemon prevents this bread from becoming overly sweet. The lemon glaze on top adds just the right amount of sweetness, creating a perfect bite every time.
5. Versatile for Any Occasion
This bread is great on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve it as:
- A breakfast treat with butter or jam
- A light, fruity dessert for spring and summer gatherings
- A thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 1 cup white sugar
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
For the Glaze Topping:
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan.
- Prepare the Batter:
- Beat sugar, melted butter, eggs, and lemon juice until creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients, alternating with milk.
- Fold in blueberries, walnuts, and lemon zest gently.
- Bake the Bread:
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- Mix sugar and lemon juice until smooth.
- Glaze and Serve:
- Drizzle the glaze over the warm bread.
- Cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Serves 10)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 20 g
Secrets to Baking the Perfect Lemon Blueberry Bread
Even though this is an easy recipe, a few tips will elevate your baking game and ensure that every loaf turns out light, moist, and flavorful.
1. Use Fresh Lemon Zest for Maximum Flavor
Lemon zest contains essential oils that intensify the citrus flavor. To get the most out of it:
- Use a microplane grater to remove only the bright yellow outer layer (avoid the bitter white pith).
- Massage the zest into the sugar before mixing—this releases the oils and enhances the aroma.
2. Toss the Blueberries in Flour to Prevent Sinking
Have you ever baked a blueberry loaf only to find all the berries sank to the bottom? To prevent this:
- Toss the blueberries in a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter.
- This helps distribute them evenly and keeps them from sinking during baking.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, making the bread dense and tough. To avoid this:
- Stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined.
- The batter should be slightly lumpy—this is normal!
4. Bake at the Right Temperature and Check for Doneness
- Baking at 350°F (175°C) ensures even cooking without drying out the loaf.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!
5. Apply the Lemon Glaze While the Bread is Warm
- Pouring the lemon glaze over the warm bread allows it to soak in, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful top layer.
Delicious Variations of Lemon Blueberry Bread
This classic recipe is easily customizable! Try these fun variations to switch things up:
1. Make It Healthier
- Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat version.
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
- Reduce the sugar slightly for a less sweet version.
2. Try a Different Berry
- Swap blueberries for raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries.
- For an even tangier loaf, try using a mix of berries.
3. Add a Crunchy Topping
- Sprinkle the top with sliced almonds or chopped pecans before baking for a nutty crunch.
- Add a cinnamon streusel topping for a bakery-style twist.
4. Make Muffins Instead of a Loaf
- Use the same batter to make Lemon Blueberry Muffins!
- Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes for perfectly soft muffins.
How to Store and Keep Your Bread Fresh
1. Storing at Room Temperature
- Keep the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container.
- Stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.
2. Refrigerating for Longer Shelf Life
- Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Allow to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
3. Freezing for Future Enjoyment
- Wrap the fully cooled loaf in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To serve, thaw at room temperature overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Blueberries?
Yes! Frozen blueberries work well, but don’t thaw them before adding to the batter. Thawed blueberries release excess moisture, which can make the bread too wet.
2. How Do I Keep My Blueberries from Sinking?
Toss them in a tablespoon of flour before folding into the batter—this helps them stay evenly distributed.
3. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for a gluten-free version.
4. What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftover Lemon Blueberry Bread?
- Microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
- Toast slices in a pan with a little butter for a golden, crispy edge.
5. Can I Omit the Glaze?
Absolutely! The bread is delicious on its own, but the glaze enhances the lemon flavor. If you prefer a less sweet version, simply skip it.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Quick Bread for Any Occasion
Lemon Blueberry Bread is more than just a baked good—it’s a celebration of bright, fresh flavors. The combination of tangy lemon, juicy blueberries, and a soft, buttery crumb makes this a standout recipe that’s perfect for any time of year.
Whether you serve it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this easy-to-make quick bread is guaranteed to bring a little sunshine to your day.
So, preheat your oven, zest a lemon, and bake a loaf that’s bursting with fresh fruit and citrusy goodness. Once you try it, this Lemon Blueberry Bread might just become your new favorite treat!
Print
Flavorful Lemon Blueberry Bread
- Total Time: 75–85 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
Lemon Blueberry Bread is a refreshing, sweet, and tangy treat that’s perfect for any time of the day. Bursting with juicy blueberries and vibrant lemon zest, this moist bread is topped with a simple lemon glaze for a finishing touch. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 1 cup white sugar
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
For the Glaze Topping:
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×4-inch loaf pan.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar, melted butter, eggs, and lemon juice together until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
- Add Blueberries and Walnuts: Gently fold in the blueberries, chopped walnuts, and grated lemon zest. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Bread:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the bread in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the bread is cooling, mix the sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
- Glaze and Serve:
- Remove the bread from the pan and drizzle the glaze over the top while it’s still warm.
- Let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Fresh or Frozen Blueberries: Both work well, but do not thaw frozen blueberries before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.
- Coat Blueberries in Flour: Tossing blueberries in a small amount of flour before adding to the batter helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
- Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Optional Additions: Swap walnuts for almonds or omit nuts if preferred. You can also add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60–70 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
