How to Make a Delicious and Moist Lemon Blueberry Loaf
If you’re looking for a refreshing and tasty treat, this Lemon Blueberry Loaf is the perfect choice! The combination of tangy lemon and sweet, juicy blueberries creates a mouthwatering loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a sweet dessert after dinner. Plus, it’s simple to make and ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
Whether you're baking for a special occasion or just want something to enjoy with your morning coffee, this lemon blueberry bread is sure to become a favorite. Let's dive into how to make this irresistible loaf!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, make sure you have these basic ingredients for the best lemon blueberry loaf:- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This is the base for your loaf and gives it structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder and ½ teaspoon baking soda: These will help the loaf rise and become light and fluffy.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): For that rich, moist texture.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the loaf and balances the tartness of the lemon.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Adds a bright, aromatic citrus flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: For that tangy kick that makes this loaf so refreshing.
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and richness to the loaf.
- 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries: These juicy berries are the star of the recipe!
- 1 tablespoon flour: For coating the blueberries, so they don’t sink to the bottom.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your PanFirst, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal once the loaf is baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix on medium speed until light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavors
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and fresh lemon juice. The lemon zest adds a fragrant aroma and fresh citrus flavor to the loaf.
Step 5: Add Sour Cream
Next, mix in the sour cream or Greek yogurt until well combined. This ingredient ensures your loaf stays moist and tender.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the loaf light and fluffy.
Step 7: Fold in the Blueberries
Toss the blueberries with 1 tablespoon of flour to help prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf while baking. Gently fold the coated blueberries into the batter.
Step 8: Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The loaf should be golden on top and have a delightful lemon fragrance filling your kitchen.
Step 9: Cool and Glaze (Optional)
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you want to add an extra layer of sweetness, drizzle a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top once it’s cooled.
Tips for the Perfect Lemon Blueberry Loaf
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf.
Flour the Blueberries: Tossing the blueberries in flour helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature before you begin. This helps everything mix together smoothly.
Substitute Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream: If you prefer a tangier taste, feel free to swap the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Loaf
This Lemon Blueberry Loaf is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with the freshness of lemon and the juicy burst of blueberries in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert to share with friends and family, this loaf is sure to impress.The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners. With just a few simple steps, you can have a homemade loaf that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. The tangy lemon glaze adds a lovely finish, making it the perfect treat to serve at a brunch or to enjoy on a lazy afternoon.