Lemon Blueberry Morning Bread

Name: Lemon Blueberry Morning Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; ⅓ cup fresh lemon juice; 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Highlighted under: From the Oven

I absolutely adore making Lemon Blueberry Morning Bread whenever I have fresh blueberries on hand. The combination of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a delightful balance that makes my mornings feel extra special. Each slice is tender and moist, and it fills my kitchen with a heavenly aroma as it bakes. This bread isn't just for breakfast; it's perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your home.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:43:36.580Z

Making this Lemon Blueberry Morning Bread became a tradition in our household during the summer months when blueberries are at their peak. I love how the tartness of the lemon brightens the bread, and the juicy blueberries pop with flavor in every bite. I’ve found that using a mix of both fresh and frozen blueberries yields the best results, as it ensures that each slice is generously dotted with berries.

Another tip I’ve discovered is letting the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This way, it holds together beautifully and slices smoothly. Whether paired with a slather of butter or enjoyed plain, this bread always brings a smile to my face with every bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright lemon flavor that energizes your mornings
Bursting with juicy blueberries for an irresistible bite
Perfectly moist texture that holds together beautifully

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh blueberries elevates this Lemon Blueberry Morning Bread significantly. Their natural sweetness and juiciness infuse the bread with delightful bursts of flavor. If fresh blueberries aren't available, you can substitute frozen ones; just ensure they're thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture, which can affect the bread's structure and texture.

Lemon zest plays a crucial role in enhancing the citrus flavor of this bread. It's important to use fresh lemons; the zest contains essential oils that provide a vibrant aroma and flavor that dried zest simply can’t replicate. For maximum zest, choose organic lemons if possible, as they are usually unwaxed.

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the perfect moist texture requires careful mixing. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, while undermixing may leave pockets of flour. Start by gently incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. A few streaks of flour are perfectly fine as the batter will continue to blend during baking.

The moisture balance in this recipe is essential. The unsalted butter not only adds richness but also contributes to a tender crumb. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature to ensure it creams properly with the sugar, creating air pockets that promote a light and fluffy texture.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

To keep your Lemon Blueberry Morning Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

This bread is versatile for various occasions. Serve it warm with a smear of butter or cream cheese for a delightful breakfast treat. It also pairs beautifully with tea during afternoon gatherings or can be enjoyed as a sweet snack. Don’t hesitate to drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top for additional sweetness and a beautiful presentation!

Ingredients

For the Bread

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon zest
⅓ cup fresh lemon juice
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

Instructions

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. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Slice

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For best results, sprinkle a little flour on the blueberries before folding them into the batter. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bread doesn't rise as expected, it could be due to old baking powder or baking soda, which lose potency over time. Always check the expiration dates and store these ingredients in a cool, dry place to maintain their effectiveness. Additionally, if the dough seems too thick, a small splash of milk or extra lemon juice can help reach the desired consistency.

Should you find your bread has a gummy center after baking, it may not have cooked long enough. Every oven is different, so be sure to perform the toothpick test a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid this issue. Also, consider placing the loaf in the center of the oven and rotating it halfway through for even baking.

Flavor Variations

You can easily customize the flavor profile of this bread. Adding a teaspoon of poppy seeds will introduce a delightful crunch, complementing the blueberries perfectly. For those who enjoy a hint of spice, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm undertone.

For a tropical twist, replacing half of the blueberries with diced fresh pineapple or mango adds a unique flavor while still maintaining the moisture the berries provide. Experimenting with these substitutions not only diversifies the bread's taste but also keeps it exciting every time you bake!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries work just as well. Make sure to toss them in a bit of flour before adding to the batter.

→ How should I store the bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Certainly! Adding chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch to the bread.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use applesauce or coconut oil as a butter substitute for a healthier version.