Introduction
Brighten your day with this delightful Lemon Blueberry Loaf drizzled with a zesty lemon glaze! It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with juicy blueberries bursting with flavor in every slice. This homemade treat not only fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma while baking but also brings a sunshine-inspired warmth to your table. Whether it’s a snack, a dessert, or a breakfast option, this loaf will surely become a cherished recipe in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- ½ cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or a non-stick spray to ensure the loaf releases easily after baking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the invigorating lemon zest, refreshing lemon juice, and vanilla extract to infuse your batter with flavor.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be careful!
- Love those juicy blueberries? Gently fold them into the batter, taking care to distribute them evenly without smashing them.
- Pour the luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma!
- Once baked, allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely—this step is crucial for that perfect texture!
- For the finishing touch, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this sweet and tangy glaze over the cooled loaf just before serving for an enticing shine.
Notes or Tips
- Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor and texture; if you only have frozen, don’t worry! Just toss them in a bit of flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less powdered sugar to your taste.
- This loaf keeps well at room temperature, or you can store it in the fridge for a refreshing cool treat—just remember to cover it to maintain its moisture!
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of loaf baking involves a few key techniques. Make sure to cream your butter and sugar well, as this incorporates air into the batter, yielding a light and fluffy texture. Additionally, folding in the blueberries gently will help maintain their shape and avoid a stained batter. Keep an eye on your loaf while it bakes; every oven is different, and a toothpick test is a reliable way to check for doneness!
FAQ
- Can I substitute the lemon juice? You can use lime juice as an alternative if you want a different citrus twist, though the flavor will vary slightly.
- How long does the loaf stay fresh? Properly wrapped, it can last for up to 5 days at room temperature and even longer in the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze the loaf? Absolutely! Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. Just let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Conclusion
This Lemon Blueberry Loaf is a delightful addition to any occasion, be it a sunny brunch or a cozy afternoon snack. With its vibrant flavors and elegant glaze, it’s a simple yet impressive treat that brightens up anyone’s day. Give this recipe a try, and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite in your household. Happy baking!