Blueberry Lemon Bread Glazed
Highlighted under: Dessert & Dough
Whenever I make this Blueberry Lemon Bread Glazed, I find myself transported to a sunny morning. The balance of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon is simply irresistible. I love how the glaze adds a delightful shine and a little extra sweetness without overpowering the flavors of the bread. Baking this bread is a therapeutic process for me; I enjoy the aroma that fills my kitchen as it bakes, and it’s an exciting treat to share with friends and family. It's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea.
When I first started making this Blueberry Lemon Bread, I was amazed at how easily fresh ingredients transformed a simple loaf into something truly special. The vibrant colors of the blueberries against the bright yellow lemon zest not only entice the eyes but also create a harmonious blend of flavors that keeps me coming back for more.
One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to gently fold the blueberries into the batter instead of mixing aggressively, which helps prevent them from breaking down too much. This way, I get the perfect burst of berry goodness with each bite, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing brightness that makes this bread utterly irresistible.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful bread enveloped in a creamy glaze
- Perfectly balanced sweetness from blueberries and tartness from lemon
- Ideal for sharing during brunch or as a delightful afternoon snack
The Role of Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Blueberry Lemon Bread serves a specific purpose that contributes to its overall flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour forms the structure, while the granulated sugar not only sweetens but also enhances the moisture content, resulting in a tender crumb. The combination of baking powder and salt is essential for leavening, creating the desired rise and ensuring a well-balanced flavor profile throughout the bread.
Using fresh blueberries is key to achieving a burst of juicy flavor in every bite. If fresh blueberries aren't available, frozen ones can be used, but be sure to fold them in gently to minimize color bleeding. Additionally, the lemon zest adds an aromatic freshness that brightens the bread, making it incredibly inviting. The unsalted butter provides richness, while the eggs help bind everything together, creating a cohesive loaf.
Baking Tips for Success
To achieve the best results, make sure your butter is softened, not melted, as this will help incorporate air and create a light texture. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, it's crucial to avoid overmixing—this can lead to a dense bread. Mix just until combined; a few small lumps are perfectly fine. If you find the batter too thick, adding a splash more milk can help achieve a better consistency before folding in the blueberries.
Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs when the bread is done. If you notice the top browning too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent burning while the inside cooks through. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack, preventing sogginess on the bottom.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Blueberry Lemon Bread Glazed.
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
Be sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to bake a perfect Blueberry Lemon Bread.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Add Eggs and Mix
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the milk, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in the blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Glaze
While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth.
Glaze the Bread
Once the bread has cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the glaze over the top before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked Blueberry Lemon Bread with a cup of coffee or tea!
Pro Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a little bit of lemon extract to the batter. You can also swap out some of the blueberries for raspberries for a different twist!
Make-Ahead and Storage
This Blueberry Lemon Bread is perfect for making ahead of time. After it has fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the bread. Slice it before freezing to allow for easy serving later; simply wrap each slice in plastic wrap followed by foil to minimize freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or pop into the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
If you're looking to enjoy this delightful bread at a later time, you can also prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it's best to bake it fresh to maintain the rise and texture. Just be sure to bring the batter back to room temperature before pouring it into the prepared pan and baking.
Serving Suggestions
Blueberry Lemon Bread pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For breakfast or brunch, serve it alongside a dollop of mascarpone or a smear of cream cheese for a rich addition. A light dusting of extra powdered sugar on top of the glaze can also enhance its appeal visually and taste-wise. It makes a lovely centerpiece for a brunch table, showcasing the vibrant blueberries and shiny glaze.
For an afternoon snack, enjoy a slice with a warm cup of tea or coffee. You can even add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of whipped cream for dessert. If you like a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the batter for some crunch, which will contrast nicely with the soft bread.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may release more moisture.
→ How should I store the bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! This bread can be made a day ahead and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
→ How can I make the glaze thicker?
If you prefer a thicker glaze, simply add more powdered sugar to your mixture until you reach your desired consistency.
Blueberry Lemon Bread Glazed
Whenever I make this Blueberry Lemon Bread Glazed, I find myself transported to a sunny morning. The balance of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon is simply irresistible. I love how the glaze adds a delightful shine and a little extra sweetness without overpowering the flavors of the bread. Baking this bread is a therapeutic process for me; I enjoy the aroma that fills my kitchen as it bakes, and it’s an exciting treat to share with friends and family. It's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea.
Created by: Kayla Monroe
Recipe Type: Dessert & Dough
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan and set it aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the milk, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Gently fold in the blueberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until smooth.
Once the bread has cooled for about 10 minutes, drizzle the glaze over the top before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a little bit of lemon extract to the batter. You can also swap out some of the blueberries for raspberries for a different twist!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 4g