Lemon Blueberry Bread

Name: Lemon Blueberry Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; ½ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of Lemon Blueberry Bread, a delightful combination of zesty lemon and juicy blueberries that will brighten your day. This quick bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. The soft, moist texture paired with a sweet glaze makes it irresistible. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, this bread is sure to impress family and friends alike. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
½ cup fresh lemon juice
1 cup fresh blueberries

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields about 8 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 50 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving of Lemon Blueberry Bread (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 2g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fat: 8g
– Fiber: 1g
This information is based on a standard slice size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to break them.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Greek yogurt can replace some of the butter for added moisture and protein. If you don’t have fresh blueberries, frozen ones work just as well, but do not thaw them beforehand.

Serving and Pairings

This Lemon Blueberry Bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh fruit for a delightful brunch experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store the Lemon Blueberry Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can result in a dense bread.
Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture.
Skipping the cooling step may cause the bread to crumble.
Using old baking powder can prevent proper rising.
Not greasing the pan properly can lead to sticking.

Helpful Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Experiment with different fruits like raspberries or blackberries.
Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavors.
Try adding a glaze of lemon juice and powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just add them directly to the batter without thawing to prevent them from bleeding into the bread.

How long does the Lemon Blueberry Bread stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that can be used in baking.

What can I use instead of butter?

You can replace butter with coconut oil or Greek yogurt for a healthier option, although it may alter the flavor slightly.

Is it possible to add nuts to the recipe?

Yes, you can add chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor, but be sure to adjust the quantity of blueberries slightly.

Conclusion

Lemon Blueberry Bread is a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast item or a sweet afternoon snack, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. Embrace the flavors of spring and summer with this easy-to-make recipe that will leave everyone craving more!