Blueberry Lemon Bread Glazed

Name: Blueberry Lemon Bread Glazed
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; zest of 1 lemon; ½ cup buttermilk; 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest

Highlighted under: Golden Bakes

When I first decided to bake Blueberry Lemon Bread, I knew I wanted a recipe that perfectly balanced sweetness and zest. We love how the juicy berries burst with flavor, complemented by the tangy lemon glaze. This bread is moist, fragrant, and makes for an incredible treat at breakfast or as a midday snack. After many attempts, I believe I've perfected this recipe, and I can't wait for you to try it too. Just the right amount of lemon zest and fresh blueberries come together to create a delightful experience in every bite.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:58:15.094Z

Baking has always been a therapeutic experience for me, and this Blueberry Lemon Bread is no exception. I fondly remember the first time I made it for a family gathering, impressing everyone with the bright flavors and inviting aroma wafting through the house. A key tip I discovered is to use fresh blueberries; they burst with flavor and keep the bread super moist.

As I fine-tuned this recipe, I realized that adding a bit of lemon juice directly into the batter enhances the overall tartness without overwhelming the sweetness. The glaze perfectly tops off the bread with a sweet tang, making it a prime candidate for any celebration or just a special treat for myself!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh blueberries that add a sweet-tart flavor
Lemon glaze elevates the sweetness and adds a delightful zing
Moist texture that's perfect for breakfast or dessert

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in the Blueberry Lemon Bread plays a crucial role in achieving the desired flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour provides structure, while the baking powder and baking soda work together to create a light and airy crumb. Meanwhile, the unsalted butter enriches the bread with moisture and richness, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Be sure to use fresh eggs; they help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bread's light texture.

The presence of buttermilk is key to a moist texture. Its acidity tenderizes the gluten in the flour, making for a softer crumb. If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with one cup of milk. Let it sit for about five minutes before using. This will mimic buttermilk's tangy flavor and ensure that your bread remains tender and fluffy.

Mastering the Baking Technique

When combining the ingredients, take care not to overmix the batter after adding the blueberries. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, which is not ideal for this light and fluffy bread. Instead, mix just until the blueberries are evenly distributed. A gentle fold using a rubber spatula works best to preserve the integrity of the berries and keep the batter airy.

During baking, you'll want to keep an eye on the bread as it approaches the 50-minute mark. Ovens can vary, so a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, but monitor for a golden-brown top as well. If the edges begin to darken too quickly, consider tenting the bread with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning while the center continues to cook.

Ingredients

For the Bread

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
zest of 1 lemon
½ cup buttermilk
1 ½ cups fresh blueberries

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest

Instructions

Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix just until combined.

Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the blueberries, taking care not to over mix.

Bake the Bread

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

Make the Glaze

While the bread is baking, mix the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and zest in a small bowl until smooth.

Cool and Glaze

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cool, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a handful of lemon zest to the batter along with the blueberries.

Storing and Freezing Blueberry Lemon Bread

Storing your Blueberry Lemon Bread properly will help maintain its freshness. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Slice the bread and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To thaw, simply remove as many slices as you need from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. You can also warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds or toast them to restore their fresh-baked feel.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Blueberry Lemon Bread is delightful on its own, but you're welcome to elevate it with a few serving suggestions. A spread of cream cheese or lemon curd adds a creamy richness, complementing the bread's tangy flavors perfectly. Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack experience.

For a fun twist, try adding other fruits like raspberries or blackberries along with the blueberries for a mixed berry version. Nuts such as chopped walnuts or pecans can also be incorporated for additional texture and flavor. Just be cautious not to exceed the total fruit measurement to maintain the balance in the bread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute frozen blueberries for fresh ones?

Yes, but be aware that frozen blueberries may make the batter slightly more wet and change the baking time.

→ How do I store leftover bread?

Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it has a binding agent.

→ What can I use if I don't have buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing ½ cup of milk with ½ tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.