Lemon Blueberry Loaf: A Burst of Sunshine in Every Bite
Calling all lemon and blueberry lovers! This Lemon Blueberry Loaf recipe is about to become your new go-to for a delightful breakfast, snack, or even dessert. Imagine a perfectly moist and flavorful loaf bursting with juicy blueberries, all zested up with a vibrant lemon flavor. Topped with a sweet and tangy lemon glaze, this recipe is a symphony of tastes and textures that's guaranteed to brighten your day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe:
- Classic Combination: This recipe combines the timeless flavors of lemon and blueberry, creating a taste bud tantalizing experience in every bite. The tartness of the lemon perfectly complements the sweetness of the blueberries, resulting in a delightful flavor balance.
- Easy Does It: Despite its impressive outcome, this Lemon Blueberry Loaf comes together surprisingly quick and easy. With minimal steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
- Versatile Treat: This loaf is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it for breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea, savor it as a satisfying afternoon snack, or serve it as a delightful dessert. It's also a wonderful addition to a special brunch, tea party, or baby shower.
Ingredients:
- For the Luscious Loaf:
- 1 ½ cups plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup plain yogurt or sour cream (your choice!)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- For the Tangy Lemon Glaze:
- 2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup sifted confectioners' sugar
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Get your oven started by preheating it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Generously grease the sides and bottom of a loaf pan to ensure easy removal later.
- Dry Ingredients Unite: In a bowl, sift together all the dry ingredients for the bread, which include the flour and baking powder. This step helps aerate the flour, resulting in a lighter and fluffier loaf.
- Mixing the Wet Delights: In a separate large bowl, use a whisk or electric mixer to combine all the moist ingredients for the loaf. This includes the eggs, sugar, yogurt or sour cream, salt, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil.
- Dry Meets Wet: Slowly add the dry ingredients from the first bowl into the wet ingredients in the second bowl. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf.
- Coating the Blueberries: In a separate bowl, toss the fresh or frozen blueberries with the extra tablespoon of flour. This light dusting of flour helps prevent the blueberries from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.
- Batter Up!: Gently fold the coated blueberries into the prepared batter using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain some visible blueberry chunks.
- Baking to Perfection: Pour the batter evenly into your greased loaf pan. Bake the loaf in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean, the bread is done.
- Cooling Down: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes in the pan. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Crafting the Lemon Glaze: While the loaf cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together the sifted confectioners' sugar and lemon juice in a small saucepan over low heat. Simmer for 3 minutes, or until the glaze thickens slightly.
- The Grand Glaze Reveal: Once the loaf is cool, use a toothpick to poke small holes all over the top and sides. This allows the glaze to seep into the bread and add extra flavor and moisture.
- Glazing for Glory: Using a pastry brush, generously brush the lemon glaze over the top and sides of the cooled loaf. Let the glaze harden for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor: Substitute full-fat Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt or sour cream. Greek yogurt adds a touch of tang and creaminess, along with a slightly higher protein content.
- No Lemons? No Problem!: If you don't have fresh lemons, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of bottled lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon extract for the 2 teaspoons of lemon zest. This will still provide a lovely lemon flavor, though fresh lemons are always preferable for the most vibrant taste.
- Leftover Love: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Toast leftover slices for a warm and gooey treat!
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