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
Scale
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
