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Lemon Blueberry Loaf
About This Recipe
Few baked goods capture the essence of freshness and comfort quite like a Lemon Blueberry Loaf. This delightful quick bread brings together the vibrant citrus flavor of lemon with the juicy sweetness of blueberries, baked into a moist, tender loaf. The fragrance alone is enough to make your kitchen feel like a cozy bakery. Each slice offers a soft crumb with bursts of blueberry and a subtle tang from the lemon zest and juice, while a drizzle of lemon glaze on top provides the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
For the loaf:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (tossed in 1 tablespoon flour to prevent sinking)
For the glaze (optional but recommended):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your loaf pan and oven.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, then line it
with parchment paper for easy removal. Preheating ensures the batter starts baking immediately,
which helps the loaf rise properly.
Step 2: Cream the butter and sugar.
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
This step incorporates air into the batter, creating a lighter loaf.
Step 3: Add the wet ingredients.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the yogurt or sour cream,
fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. The yogurt adds moisture and tenderness, while
the lemon juice and zest provide that refreshing citrus kick.
Step 4: Combine the dry ingredients.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures
the leavening agents are evenly distributed and prevents clumping.
Step 5: Mix wet and dry ingredients.
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet batter. Mix just until combined to avoid overmixing,
which can make the loaf dense. The batter should be thick but spreadable.
Step 6: Add the blueberries.
Gently fold in the flour-coated blueberries. Tossing them in flour helps prevent them from sinking
to the bottom of the loaf as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake the loaf.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes,
or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly,
tent it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 15 minutes.
Step 8: Cool and glaze.
Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack.
For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle it over
the completely cooled loaf before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This loaf is incredibly versatile. For breakfast, serve it slightly warm with a pat of butter. As a mid-afternoon snack, pair it with hot tea or iced coffee. For dessert, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side. If you’re entertaining, slice the loaf and arrange it on a platter with fresh berries for a colorful presentation.
FAQ
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes! Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh. Do not thaw them before mixing—just coat them in flour
and fold them gently into the batter to prevent excess bleeding of color.
Can I make this loaf ahead of time?
Absolutely. The loaf keeps well for several days and can be baked a day before serving.
Just store it properly to maintain its moisture.
Can I replace yogurt with milk?
Whole milk can be used in a pinch, but yogurt or sour cream is preferred for the moistest texture.
Why did my loaf sink in the middle?
This can happen if the batter was overmixed or if the loaf was underbaked.
Always check for doneness with a toothpick before removing it from the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Blueberry Loaf is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s light yet satisfying, with flavors that strike a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Whether you bake it for your family, serve it at a gathering, or gift it to a friend, it’s guaranteed to bring joy. Once you’ve tried this recipe, it may very well become a staple in your baking rotation.