Refreshing Blueberry Lemon Bread with Optional Lemon Glaze

This Blueberry Lemon Bread combines the zesty tang of lemon with the sweet burst of blueberries, creating a moist and flavorful loaf perfect for any time of day. Infused with fresh lemon juice and zest, this bread brings a delightful aroma and taste that pairs wonderfully with the juicy blueberries. The optional lemon glaze adds a sweet and tangy finish, making it a stunning treat that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This: This bread is incredibly easy to make and perfect for those who enjoy a balance of fruity and tangy flavors. The lemon brightens the sweet blueberries, providing a refreshing twist to traditional quick breads. Whether served at breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this blueberry lemon bread is a versatile addition to any meal.

Perfect Occasion: Serve this blueberry lemon bread at brunches, tea parties, or as a delightful dessert at family gatherings. It’s also fantastic for packing into lunchboxes for a special treat or gifting to friends and neighbors.

Decoration Tips: To enhance the presentation, you can sprinkle the top of the bread with coarse sugar before baking for a sparkling, crunchy crust. Garnishing the glazed bread with additional lemon zest or a few fresh blueberries will add color and reinforce the lemon and blueberry theme.

Ingredients:

• Bread:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (188g), plus 1/2 Tbsp (4g) for coating blueberries
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup milk, room temperature (59ml)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (198g)
  • 2 eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice (29ml)
  • 1 1/2 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen (255g)
• Lemon Glaze (optional):
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (113g)
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice (29ml)
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 Tbsp milk (14ml)
  • 1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Flavorings:
   • Mix in the eggs, one at a time, then add vanilla, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined.
6. Fold in Blueberries:
   • Toss the blueberries with 1/2 tablespoon of flour to coat. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter.
7. Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle additional blueberries on top if desired.
   • Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
   • While the bread cools, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and lemon zest in a small bowl. Adjust consistency with milk, adding more powdered sugar or liquid as needed.
9. Glaze and Serve:
   • Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle with the lemon glaze.
   • Allow the glaze to set before slicing.

Enjoy this delightful Blueberry Lemon Bread as a special treat that combines the freshness of citrus with the sweetness of berries in every delicious slice!