Lemon Blueberry Loaf

Name: Lemon Blueberry Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ 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; 2 tablespoons lemon zest; ⅓ cup lemon juice; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Indulge in the refreshing flavors of our Lemon Blueberry Loaf! This delightful dessert combines the tartness of lemon with the sweetness of fresh blueberries, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or served as a brunch centerpiece, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delicious treat!

Ingredients

1 ½ 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
2 tablespoons lemon zest
⅓ cup lemon juice
1 cup fresh blueberries

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 50 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 210 calories, 8g fat, 32g carbohydrates, 2g protein, and 1g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to break them.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Feel free to replace fresh blueberries with frozen ones, but be aware they may add extra moisture.

Serving and Pairings

This lemon blueberry loaf pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s also delicious served with a side of fresh fruits or a light citrus salad for a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to two months. To reheat, simply place slices in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense loaf.
Not measuring ingredients accurately may affect texture.
Opening the oven door too early can cause the loaf to sink.
Using expired baking powder can prevent proper rising.
Not letting the loaf cool sufficiently can lead to sogginess.

Helpful Tips

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Fresh lemons will provide the best flavor.
Gently toss blueberries in flour before adding to prevent sinking.
Experiment with adding poppy seeds for extra texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries in this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just fold them in gently while still frozen to minimize color bleeding into the batter.

How can I tell when the loaf is done?

The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make this loaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! The loaf can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

What should I do if my loaf is too dense?

If your loaf turns out dense, ensure you properly measured ingredients and did not overmix the batter, as this can develop gluten.

How do I add more lemon flavor?

You can increase the amount of lemon zest or add a bit more lemon juice to enhance the citrus flavor in the loaf.

Conclusion

This Lemon Blueberry Loaf is a delightful treat that combines bright flavors and a moist texture, perfect for any time of day. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a snack later, this loaf will surely brighten your day. Try it today and savor each delicious bite!