Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread
Highlighted under: Sweet Collection
When I first decided to bake Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, I aimed to create something light yet indulgent, perfect for any time of day. The aroma of fresh lemons and blueberries filled my kitchen, and the vibrant colors made the cooking process so enjoyable. The balance of tart lemon and sweet blueberries is honestly delightful, and it always makes for a great treat to share with family and friends. Plus, it's incredibly easy to put together—a perfect recipe for both beginner and seasoned bakers alike.
While experimenting in the kitchen, I found that combining citrus zest with berries can elevate baked goods tremendously. The first time I made this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, I was amazed at how vibrant the flavors melded together. I discussed the proportions with fellow bakers and realized that a touch of Greek yogurt helps to keep the bread moist without weighing it down.
Using fresh blueberries adds bursts of flavor, while the lemon zest brightens every slice. I recommend letting it cool completely before slicing; it helps the texture set beautifully, making for perfect, tender slices. This is a recipe I keep coming back to—I hope you will, too!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- The harmonious blend of tart lemon and sweet blueberries.
- Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
- A beautiful loaf that impresses every time.
Mastering Texture and Flavor
Achieving the perfect texture in Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread is all about the balance between dry and wet ingredients. The Greek yogurt not only adds moisture but also contributes to the bread's tender crumb. If you don't have Greek yogurt on hand, you can substitute it with plain regular yogurt or even sour cream, though the latter will impart a slightly tangy flavor that pairs well with blueberries.
Lemon zest is crucial in delivering that vibrant citrus flavor that complements the sweetness of the blueberries. Make sure to zest the lemons just before use to retain the essential oils, which provide a burst of freshness. Avoid including the white pith under the zest, as it can introduce bitterness to the bread.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Bread
When baking, monitoring the oven temperature is key. An oven thermometer can ensure your oven is calibrated correctly, as even a slight variance can affect baking times. For a golden crust, keep an eye on the top of the loaf; it should be golden brown and spring back slightly when touched. If the top browns too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
It's important to let the bread cool properly in the pan for about 10 minutes to prevent it from becoming gummy. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack; cooling allows air to circulate around the bread, keeping the texture light and fluffy. If you're in a hurry, slice it warmer, but expect a softer crumb.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious blueberry lemon tea bread:
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup milk
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to bake your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread:
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Mix dry ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream butter and sugar
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and flavorings
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
Combine mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with Greek yogurt and milk until just combined.
Fold in blueberries
Carefully fold in the fresh blueberries to avoid breaking them.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slicing the bread is easier if you let it set for a while!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a lemon glaze on top once the bread has cooled.
Serving Suggestions
Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion. For breakfast, a spread of creamy butter or a dollop of lemon curd enhances its flavor beautifully. You can also serve it alongside a cup of herbal tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
For a more decadent dessert, consider pairing slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream. The contrast of warm bread and cold cream is simply delightful and elevates the dish for special gatherings.
Storage and Freezing
To store Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature. It should remain fresh for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. Once cooled, slice the bread and individually wrap each piece for convenience. It can be frozen for up to three months and thawed at room temperature or quickly in the microwave.
When reheating slices, a few seconds in the microwave can restore its soft texture, or you could toast it lightly in a skillet for a crispy crust. This versatility in serving means you can always enjoy a slice any time you crave a comforting treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, just toss them in a bit of flour to prevent them from sinking.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
→ Can I substitute the yogurt?
Yes, sour cream can be used as a substitute for Greek yogurt.
→ Is this recipe freezable?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread
When I first decided to bake Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, I aimed to create something light yet indulgent, perfect for any time of day. The aroma of fresh lemons and blueberries filled my kitchen, and the vibrant colors made the cooking process so enjoyable. The balance of tart lemon and sweet blueberries is honestly delightful, and it always makes for a great treat to share with family and friends. Plus, it's incredibly easy to put together—a perfect recipe for both beginner and seasoned bakers alike.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the lemon zest and vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with Greek yogurt and milk until just combined.
Carefully fold in the fresh blueberries to avoid breaking them.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a lemon glaze on top once the bread has cooled.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 4g