Lemon Blueberry Loaf: A Zesty, Sweet Treat

The Lemon Blueberry Loaf is a delightful and refreshing treat that perfectly balances the tartness of lemon with the sweet, juicy bursts of blueberries. This loaf cake is ideal for those who enjoy a tangy yet sweet dessert, and it’s versatile enough to serve at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a light dessert. With its moist crumb and vibrant flavors, the Lemon Blueberry Loaf is a favorite among home bakers and dessert lovers.

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Lemon and blueberries are a classic combination, celebrated for their complementary flavors. The acidity of the lemon enhances the sweetness of the blueberries, making this loaf a harmonious blend of tastes. The addition of a lemon glaze adds an extra layer of zesty sweetness, creating a beautiful finish that’s as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ingredients:

For the Loaf:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries (if using frozen, do not thaw)

For the Lemon Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions:

Preparing the Loaf:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan, or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and lemon zest until light and fluffy.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternately add the flour mixture and the combined lemon juice and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
  6. Fold in Blueberries: Gently fold the blueberries into the batter.
  7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Making the Lemon Glaze:

  1. Prepare Glaze: While the loaf is cooling, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to make the glaze. Adjust the consistency with more lemon juice or powdered sugar as needed.
  2. Glaze the Loaf: Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top.

Conclusion

The Lemon Blueberry Loaf is a delightful, easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a sweet snack, or want to enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea, this loaf is sure to please. Its moist texture, bursting with the fresh flavors of lemon and blueberries, makes it a universally loved dessert. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a zesty, fruity baked good, give this Lemon Blueberry Loaf a try – it’s sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.

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