If you’ve been searching for a delightful treat that perfectly balances tart and sweet with a tender crumb, look no further than this Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Zesty Glaze Recipe. Bursting with the freshness of juicy blueberries and bright lemon zest, this loaf is the kind of baked good that instantly lifts your spirits and fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert, this loaf feels like sunshine wrapped up in every bite, complete with a smooth, tangy glaze that takes it over the top. It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Zesty Glaze Recipe relies on straightforward pantry staples that work beautifully together. Each ingredient brings its own special magic: from the soft butter creating a moist texture to the fresh lemon zest delivering that signature zing, these components are essential for making this loaf truly unforgettable.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and gives the loaf its tender crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the loaf rise and become perfectly fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure a lovely lift and crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and keeps the loaf moist.
- 3/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the loaf without overpowering the fresh lemon and blueberry flavors.
- 2 eggs: Acts as a binder and contributes to the loaf’s soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the batter.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings moisture and a subtle tang that complements the lemon perfectly.
- 1/2 cup blueberries: The star fruit, bursting with juicy pockets of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Infuses the loaf with bright citrus notes.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice: Adds tang and freshness to the batter and glaze.
How to Make Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Zesty Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan well to ensure the loaf bakes evenly and releases smoothly when it’s done. A nicely greased pan is a little moment that sets you up for baking success.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step makes sure all the dry elements are evenly combined, avoiding any clumps and ensuring your loaf rises uniformly.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until your mixture is light and fluffy. This whipping process traps air and helps create a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth with every bite.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and sour cream. Mixing these together brings richness and moisture, laying down a silky foundation for the blueberries and lemon to shine.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture. Take care to mix gently and just until everything comes together — overmixing can make the loaf dense, and we want it as tender and light as possible!
Step 6: Fold in Blueberries and Lemon
Gently fold in the blueberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice. The berries should be evenly distributed, and this step infuses your batter with bursts of color and sharp citrus flavor that make this loaf irresistible.
Step 7: Pour Batter into Loaf Pan
Pour your beautifully mixed batter into the greased pan and smooth the top with a spatula, giving it an even surface so it bakes uniformly and looks picture-perfect when it’s done.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean. This is the part where patience pays off — the aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling deliciousness is on its way.
Step 9: Cool and Glaze
Allow your loaf to cool completely before drizzling the zesty glaze made by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice. This final touch adds a shiny finish and an extra layer of tangy sweetness that makes the loaf simply unforgettable.
How to Serve Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Zesty Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Zesty Glaze Recipe even more inviting, try sprinkling a few fresh blueberries on top or a pinch of extra lemon zest after glazing. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also bring a touch of elegance and sweetness.
Side Dishes
This loaf pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a richer experience, serve alongside a dollop of vanilla yogurt or mascarpone cheese to balance the refreshing lemon notes with creamy softness.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your loaf thick for a breakfast treat or cut it into smaller squares for easy finger food at brunch. You can also toast slices lightly and slather with butter or lemon curd to vary textures and flavors. A beautiful wooden board with fresh fruit alongside makes a stunning presentation!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep it fresh and moist. This way, you can enjoy its perfect texture without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw it gently at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy your Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Zesty Glaze Recipe again.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices in a warm oven for a few minutes or pop them in the toaster for a quick warm-up that brings back the delightful smell and soft texture. The glaze might soften slightly, adding to the gooey goodness!
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well so they don’t add too much moisture to the batter, which can affect the loaf’s texture.
Is sour cream necessary in this recipe?
Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang that perfectly complements the lemon, but you could substitute with Greek yogurt for a similar effect.
How do I make the zesty glaze?
Mix powdered sugar with fresh lemon juice until smooth and pourable. The amount of lemon juice can be adjusted to reach your preferred drizzle thickness.
Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon?
You can, but fresh lemon zest and juice provide a brighter, more natural flavor that really makes this loaf stand out. Lemon extract will work in a pinch though.
What if my loaf is browning too quickly?
If you notice the loaf browning too quickly, tent it loosely with foil halfway through baking to prevent burning while allowing it to cook through.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making and sharing this Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Zesty Glaze Recipe as much as I do. It’s the kind of loaf that brightens any day and brings a homemade touch to your table with ease. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to for all things sweet and citrusy!
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Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Zesty Glaze Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Zesty Glaze is a delightful quick bread bursting with fresh blueberries and bright lemon flavor. Moist and tender with a lightly tangy finish, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. The zesty lemon glaze adds a sweet and citrusy topping that complements the loaf’s soft crumb beautifully.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup blueberries
For the Zesty Glaze
- Powdered sugar (quantity enough to make a glaze)
- Lemon juice (to taste, for glaze consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy, indicating air has been incorporated.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and sour cream, mixing thoroughly to create a smooth batter.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry flour mixture into the wet batter using a spatula or spoon, mixing just until the ingredients are combined to avoid overmixing and a tough loaf.
- Add Blueberries and Lemon: Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, lemon zest, and lemon juice to distribute evenly without crushing the berries.
- Pour Batter: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Glaze: Allow the loaf to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the zesty glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice until you achieve a drizzling consistency. Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over the loaf before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries; if using frozen, do not thaw to prevent bleeding into the batter.
- For extra lemon flavor, add more zest or a teaspoon of lemon extract if available.
- Ensure ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Allow the loaf to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting and running off.
- The glaze can be adjusted in thickness by varying the amount of lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
