Lemon Blueberry Bread: A Deliciously Moist Recipe You’ll Love

Lemon Blueberry Bread is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the tartness of fresh lemons with the sweetness of juicy blueberries. As I take a bite of this moist, flavorful bread, I am reminded of sunny mornings spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of citrus and berries would fill the air. This recipe not only brings back cherished memories but also showcases the beautiful harmony of flavors that make it a beloved favorite among family and friends.

The history of Lemon Blueberry Bread is rooted in the tradition of using seasonal fruits to create comforting baked goods. Blueberries, often referred to as “nature’s candy,” have been enjoyed for centuries, while lemons add a refreshing zing that elevates any dish. People adore this bread not just for its taste and texture, but also for its convenience; it’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. With its vibrant colors and irresistible flavor, Lemon Blueberry Bread is sure to become a staple in your home, just as it has in mine.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, if fresh is not available)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for tossing blueberries)
• Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Preparing the Batter

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully. 2. **Prepare the Loaf Pan**: Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later. 3. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour. 4. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process incorporates air into the butter, which helps the bread rise. 5. **Add Eggs and Flavorings**: Add the 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon of lemon zest, and ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice. The zest and juice will give your bread that delightful lemony flavor. 6. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the ½ cup of buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients (dry, wet, dry). Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread.

Preparing the Blueberries

7. **Toss Blueberries in Flour**: In a small bowl, toss the 1 ½ cups of blueberries with 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour. This helps to prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom of the bread during baking. 8. **Fold in Blueberries**: Gently fold the floured blueberries into the batter using a spatula. Be careful not to crush the berries; you want to keep them whole for bursts of flavor in every slice.

Cooking Process

9. **Pour Batter into Loaf Pan**: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure to spread it evenly to ensure even baking. 10. **Bake the Bread**: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil halfway through baking. 11. **Cool the Bread**: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it allows the bread to set and makes slicing easier.

Assembling and Serving

12. **Slice the Bread**: Once the bread is completely cool, use a serrated knife to slice it into even pieces. I recommend slicing it about 1-inch thick for the best texture. 13. **Optional Dusting**: If you want to add a touch of sweetness, you can dust the top of the bread with powdered sugar before serving. This not only adds a nice visual appeal but also a little extra sweetness. 14. **Serving Suggestions**: This lemon blueberry bread is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese for an extra treat. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for breakfast or an

Conclusion:

In summary, this Lemon Blueberry Bread is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their baking game. The delightful combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and comforting, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a delightful afternoon snack. I love serving it warm, straight from the oven, with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of indulgence. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts for a delightful crunch or swapping out the blueberries for raspberries or strawberries for a fun twist. You can also experiment with different glazes, like a simple lemon icing or a cream cheese frosting, to take this bread to the next level. I encourage you to give this Lemon Blueberry Bread a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you enjoy it on your own or share it at a gathering, I promise it will be a hit! Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out for you; I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you come up with. Happy baking!

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