Blueberry Lemon Quick Bread
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I absolutely love making this Blueberry Lemon Quick Bread, especially during the warm months when blueberries are in season. The bright, zesty flavor from the lemon combined with sweet and juicy blueberries creates a delightful balance that is perfect for breakfast or a snack. I appreciate how quick this bread comes together—just mix, pour, and bake! It's so easy that even novice bakers can impress their friends and family with this delightful treat.
When I first tried this Blueberry Lemon Quick Bread, I was amazed by how simple it is to bake. The way the sweet blueberries burst with flavor against the tart lemon zest is truly remarkable! I love to add a sprinkle of sugar on top before baking for a sweet, crunchy crust.
One of my favorite tips is to toss the blueberries in a little bit of flour before adding them into the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom and ensures an even distribution throughout the bread, providing bursts of flavor with every slice!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright lemon flavor contrasts beautifully with sweet blueberries
- Perfect for that quick morning treat or afternoon snack
- Simple ingredients and quick prep make it a staple in any kitchen
The Role of Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Blueberry Lemon Quick Bread plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. All-purpose flour provides structure, while the whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and a boost in fiber. This combination not only enhances the nutritional value but also allows the bread to remain moist without feeling dense. The sugar not only sweetens the bread but also helps in creating a tender crumb, so it’s important to measure it accurately.
Lemon zest is essential as it infuses the bread with brightness. Use freshly grated lemon zest for a strong flavor—don’t skimp on this ingredient! The acidity from the lemon also works to balance the sweetness of the blueberries, making each bite a refreshing experience. If you can’t use fresh lemons, you might try a few drops of lemon extract, but remember that it won’t provide the same zestiness.
Key Baking Techniques
When combining wet and dry ingredients, it's crucial to stir only until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough bread due to gluten development. You want to see a few floury pockets remaining when combining, as the residual moisture will finish the mixing during baking. This ensures the bread remains soft and fluffy, which is what you want in a quick bread.
Don't skip the cooling step once the bread is out of the oven! Allowing it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack not only helps maintain its structure but also allows it to firm up slightly, making slicing easier. A common mistake is to slice too soon, which can lead to a crumbly mess instead of neat slices.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients before you start:
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
Make sure to have fresh blueberries for the best taste!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your quick bread:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and lemon zest until well combined.
Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Add Blueberries
Gently fold in the fresh blueberries to the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Blueberry Lemon Quick Bread!
Pro Tips
- For an even richer flavor, consider adding a drizzle of lemon glaze on top after the bread cools.
Storage Tips
To keep your Blueberry Lemon Quick Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you're looking to keep it longer, consider wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you crave it without losing flavor and texture. Thaw at room temperature or gently microwave for 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.
If the bread starts to dry out, consider serving it with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. The added moisture from these toppings not only enhances the flavor but also makes each bite feel indulgent. A dollop of cream cheese or a light whipped cream can also elevate the bread for a delightful snack or breakfast treat.
Variations and Add-Ins
Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins to change up the flavor profile. For instance, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. You could also substitute other berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, in place of blueberries for a different berry medley. Just keep in mind that different berries may have varying moisture levels, which could affect baking time slightly.
If you want to take it up a notch, consider drizzling a simple lemon glaze over the cooled bread. Just mix powdered sugar with a bit of fresh lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency. This adds a beautiful finish and extra lemony sweetness that complements the bread perfectly.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but do not thaw them before adding to the batter. Toss them in flour as you would with fresh berries.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1.
→ What can I add for extra flavor?
Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added depth of flavor!
Blueberry Lemon Quick Bread
I absolutely love making this Blueberry Lemon Quick Bread, especially during the warm months when blueberries are in season. The bright, zesty flavor from the lemon combined with sweet and juicy blueberries creates a delightful balance that is perfect for breakfast or a snack. I appreciate how quick this bread comes together—just mix, pour, and bake! It's so easy that even novice bakers can impress their friends and family with this delightful treat.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and lemon zest until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the fresh blueberries to the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips
- For an even richer flavor, consider adding a drizzle of lemon glaze on top after the bread cools.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 4g