Blueberry Lemon Loaf With Glaze
Highlighted under: Baked Collection
I’ve always had a soft spot for sweet and tangy flavors, and this Blueberry Lemon Loaf with Glaze captures that perfectly. The bright notes of lemon balance beautifully with the plump, juicy blueberries, creating a delightful treat for any occasion. Every bite is moist and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal snack with a cup of tea or as a brunch centerpiece. I love how simple it is to whip up, bringing a touch of sunshine into my kitchen, regardless of the weather outside.
I experimented with various recipes before landing on this perfect combination of blueberries and lemon. The zest adds a refreshing twist that enhances the blueberry flavor immensely. Using fresh blueberries makes a noticeable difference, ensuring that every slice is juicy and flavorful.
The glaze is the finishing touch that elevates this loaf to something truly special. I recommend drizzling it generously over the top, letting it seep into the loaf for extra sweetness. Trust me, it’s hard to resist just one slice!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- A delightful balance of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon
- Moist texture that stays fresh for days
- Simple preparation makes it perfect for bakers of all levels
Understanding the Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Blueberry Lemon Loaf serves a specific purpose that contributes to its unique flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour provides the structure, while the baking powder and soda ensure a light, airy loaf. The unsalted butter not only adds richness but also helps keep the loaf moist. Incorporating acidic ingredients like lemon juice enhances the flavors of both the blueberries and the overall loaf.
The choice of fresh blueberries is particularly important. While frozen blueberries can be used, fresh berries provide a juiciness that elevates the texture and taste. Additionally, it's best to toss the blueberries in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter. This prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking and helps distribute their flavor more evenly throughout the loaf.
Baking Techniques for Success
To achieve that perfect loaf, make sure not to overmix your batter after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, defeating the loaf’s purpose of being light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when just a few streaks of flour remain in the mixture. Using a folding motion to combine the blueberries is crucial; this technique preserves their integrity and keeps them from breaking apart.
Another essential tip is to check for doneness. Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your loaf is finished baking. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect; adjust your baking time slightly as needed for future batches!
Ingredients
For the Loaf
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, use a hand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Eggs and Flavorings
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until fully combined.
Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
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 fresh blueberries to avoid crushing them.
Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Glaze
While the loaf cools, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
Glaze the Loaf
Once the loaf has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before slicing.
Pro Tips
- For a twist, try adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. You can also substitute the blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for variation.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This Blueberry Lemon Loaf can be made ahead of time and is perfect for meal prep. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze. It can last for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.
If you’re looking to enjoy slices during the week, I recommend cutting the loaf into individual portions before freezing. This way, you can easily grab a slice for breakfast or an afternoon snack without having to defrost the entire loaf. It also helps maintain the moisture in each piece, giving you a freshly baked taste even after storing.
Variations and Flavor Enhancements
Consider adding a handful of nuts, such as chopped walnuts or pecans, for added texture and richness. You can also experiment with different berries; raspberries or blackberries can provide a new twist on the classic flavor profile. Additionally, if you're a fan of spices, a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg could complement the citrus notes beautifully, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
For a different take on the glaze, try infusing it with herbs like thyme or mint for a refreshing twist. Simply steep the herbs in warm lemon juice before mixing with powdered sugar for an elevated flavor experience. This adds an extra layer of aromatics to the already vibrant loaf, making it an extraordinary brunch item or dessert.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
→ Can I make this recipe in mini loaf pans?
Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time to about 25-30 minutes.
→ Is there a gluten-free option?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Blueberry Lemon Loaf With Glaze
I’ve always had a soft spot for sweet and tangy flavors, and this Blueberry Lemon Loaf with Glaze captures that perfectly. The bright notes of lemon balance beautifully with the plump, juicy blueberries, creating a delightful treat for any occasion. Every bite is moist and bursting with flavor, making it an ideal snack with a cup of tea or as a brunch centerpiece. I love how simple it is to whip up, bringing a touch of sunshine into my kitchen, regardless of the weather outside.
What You'll Need
For the Loaf
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In another large bowl, use a hand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the milk, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the fresh blueberries to avoid crushing them.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the loaf cools, mix the powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
Once the loaf has cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before slicing.
Extra Tips
- For a twist, try adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. You can also substitute the blueberries with raspberries or blackberries for variation.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 3g