Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries, and this Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Lemon Glaze captures that essence perfectly. Imagine a golden-brown loaf emerging from the oven, infused with the bright flavors of summer. Each slice is a delightful balance of moist, tender cake, bursting with juicy blueberries and topped with a refreshing lemon glaze that adds the perfect finish. Whether you enjoy it as a charming breakfast treat or a delightful afternoon dessert, this loaf is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
For the Lemon Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s ready for that luscious batter.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for now.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Next, stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, lemon zest, and lemon juice until everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients from your medium bowl into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want the batter to stay light and airy.
- Gently fold in the fresh blueberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. You’ll love that burst of flavor in every bite!
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula, making it as even as you can.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The loft should have a delightful golden hue.
- Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the lemon glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to set before slicing and serving.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use freshly grated lemon zest and the juiciest blueberries. Feel free to substitute frozen blueberries if fresh ones are not available, but do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture. This loaf can be made a day in advance; just store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming butter and sugar, aim for a pale, fluffy texture, as this helps incorporate air into the batter, giving the loaf a light, tender crumb. Gentle folding of the blueberries ensures they stay whole and do not create a purple batter. And remember to check your loaf for doneness with a toothpick — it should come out clean with a few moist crumbs attached.
FAQ
Can I use other berries in this recipe?
Absolutely! Raspberries or blackberries would also be delightful substitutes.
How should I store the Lemon Blueberry Loaf?
Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months — just make sure to wrap it tightly.
Conclusion
This Lemon Blueberry Loaf with Lemon Glaze is a symphony of flavors and textures that you won’t want to miss. Perfectly sweet, with just the right hint of tartness from the lemon, it’s an easy, delightful treat that will impress your family and friends. Whether paired with a warm cup of tea or enjoyed as a snack on its own, each bite promises a burst of sunshine. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let this lovely loaf brighten your day!