If you’re yearning for a burst of citrusy freshness paired with the sweet tang of juicy blueberries, then this Lemon Blueberry Loaf is just the treat for you. With its moist crumb, vibrant lemon flavor, and bursts of plump blueberries in every bite, this loaf is the epitome of summer indulgence.
This Lemon Blueberry Loaf is a delightful combination of tangy lemon zest, zesty lemon juice, and sweet bursts of blueberries, all enveloped in a moist and tender crumb. Each slice is a perfect balance of citrusy freshness and juicy sweetness, making it a truly irresistible treat for any occasion. Let’s explore the recipe and learn how to create this irresistible delight that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed, and drained)
- Optional: additional lemon zest and powdered sugar for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using a handheld mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
- Add the Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and lemon zest until incorporated.
- Incorporate the Lemon Juice and Yogurt: Gradually add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the batter, mixing until combined. Then, alternate adding the dry flour mixture and the Greek yogurt to the batter, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the Blueberries: Gently fold the fresh blueberries into the batter until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the blueberries to burst and color the batter.
- Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Cool and Garnish: Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, garnish the cooled loaf with additional lemon zest and a dusting of powdered sugar for a decorative touch.
- Slice and Serve: Once cooled, slice the Lemon Blueberry Loaf into thick slices and serve. Enjoy it as a delightful breakfast treat, a sweet addition to afternoon tea, or a delightful dessert to end any meal.
In Conclusion:
With its bright lemon flavor, juicy blueberries, and tender texture, this Lemon Blueberry Loaf is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a morning pick-me-up, a delightful snack, or a sweet ending to a meal, this loaf is guaranteed to brighten your day and satisfy your sweet tooth. So why wait? Get ready to indulge in a slice of citrusy bliss with this irresistible Lemon Blueberry Loaf
