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Blueberry Lemon Loaf

This blueberry lemon loaf is a moist, tender bread featuring bursts of juicy blueberries and bright lemon zest. It’s baked to a golden brown with a slightly crackled top, filling the kitchen with citrusy and berry aromas. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, its crumb is soft yet sturdy, inviting slices that are both flavorful and comforting.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest from 1 large lemon
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup blueberries fresh or frozen, toss with flour to prevent sinking
  • 1 tablespoon flour for tossing blueberries

Equipment

  • Loaf pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or fork
  • Microplane or zester
  • Rubber spatula
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the sifted flour and baking powder to ensure even distribution.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar with a whisk or mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. It should turn pale and slightly increase in volume.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to create a smooth, cohesive batter. The mixture should look glossy and thickens slightly.
  5. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, allowing the fragrant citrus aroma to fill the air as the batter brightens.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients in three parts, folding gently with a spatula to keep the batter airy. Alternate with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture, until just combined.
  7. Toss the blueberries with a tablespoon of flour to prevent sinking during baking. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter, distributing them evenly without overmixing.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Dot the top with a few extra blueberries if desired.
  9. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the loaf turns a deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil and continue baking.
  10. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely—this helps set the crumb and prevents crumbling.
  11. Slice the loaf once cooled, revealing a moist crumb dotted with juicy blueberries and a fragrant lemon aroma. Serve at room temperature and enjoy the bright, comforting flavors.