Blueberry Lemon Quick Bread
Highlighted under: Quick Meal Shortcuts
I love making blueberry lemon quick bread because it perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors in every bite. Whenever I slice into a warm loaf, the aroma of fresh lemon zest and ripe blueberries fills the air, instantly making my kitchen feel bright and inviting. This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and just one bowl. It's perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack throughout the day, and it always garners compliments from family and friends.
I first stumbled upon the combination of blueberry and lemon while experimenting with quick breads. The bright citrus notes really elevate the natural sweetness of the blueberries, creating a refreshing flavor profile that’s always a hit. I recommend using fresh berries when possible, as they provide the best texture and taste.
One great tip I learned is to toss the blueberries in a little flour before adding them to the batter. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking, ensuring you get a delicious blueberry in every slice. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty flavor that boosts your mood
- Moist texture with juicy blueberries in every bite
- Simple preparation makes it a perfect quick treat
Understanding the Ingredients
The combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour in this recipe not only adds depth to the flavor but also contributes to the bread's texture. The all-purpose flour provides lightness, while the whole wheat flour lends a nuttier taste and enhances the nutritional profile. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can experiment with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend, but keep in mind that the texture may vary.
Lemon zest is a star player here; it infuses the bread with a fragrant brightness that balances the sweetness of the blueberries. Make sure to use fresh lemons for zesting, as bottled lemon juice lacks the intensity. If lemon isn’t your favorite, you can swap in orange zest for a different citrus flair that pairs wonderfully with the blueberries.
Baking Tips for Perfect Quick Bread
One common mistake when baking quick bread is overmixing the batter. This can lead to a dense and tough loaf instead of the desired light and airy texture. Mix until just combined; a few lumps are fine, as they'll disappear during baking. Additionally, ensure your butter is cooled slightly before adding it to the eggs to avoid cooking them inadvertently.
Always check for doneness by sticking a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready. If you see wet batter, return it to the oven for a few more minutes. Remember, ovens can vary, so keep an eye on it toward the end of the baking time.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful loaf:
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix these provisions, and let the baking begin!
Instructions
Here's how to create your blueberry lemon quick bread:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, yogurt, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Both Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the Blueberries
Gently fold in the blueberries (if using frozen, they do not need to be thawed first) and pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake the Bread
Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Now that your bread is ready, enjoy it as breakfast or a delightful snack!
Pro Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a drizzle of lemon glaze on top of the cooled bread.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep your blueberry lemon quick bread fresh, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will stay good at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you want! When ready to eat, just thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a quick reheating option.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Blueberry lemon quick bread pairs beautifully with a variety of spreads. Try serving it with a dollop of cream cheese or a light smear of butter to enhance its rich flavors. You can also enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
For a delightful brunch treat, consider topping the slices with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a light glaze made from lemon juice and powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness while enhancing the citrus notes of the bread, making every bite even more irresistible.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, frozen blueberries work great! There's no need to thaw them; just fold them in straight from the freezer.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover quick bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to a week.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds or a pinch of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost!
Blueberry Lemon Quick Bread
I love making blueberry lemon quick bread because it perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors in every bite. Whenever I slice into a warm loaf, the aroma of fresh lemon zest and ripe blueberries fills the air, instantly making my kitchen feel bright and inviting. This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and just one bowl. It's perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack throughout the day, and it always garners compliments from family and friends.
Created by: Ariana Brooks
Recipe Type: Quick Meal Shortcuts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, yogurt, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the blueberries (if using frozen, they do not need to be thawed first) and pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a drizzle of lemon glaze on top of the cooled bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 4g