If you have a soft spot for sweet, tangy, and comforting treats, then this Blueberry Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe is bound to become your new favorite. Imagine tender, moist bread studded generously with juicy blueberries, all brightened up by a zesty lemon glaze that adds the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus punch. This delightful loaf is simple enough to whip up on a busy morning but special enough to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re baking it for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a casual dessert, this bread feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Blueberry Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe plays a starring role, coming together with minimal fuss to create maximum flavor. From the basics like all-purpose flour providing structure, to blueberries adding bursts of juicy sweetness, and fresh lemon zest delivering that irresistible zing — each component is essential for making this bread truly shine.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups plus 1/2 Tbsp to dust blueberries): This forms the lovely crumb and helps trap the blueberries evenly throughout the loaf.
- Baking powder (1 1/2 tsp): The agent that lifts your bread to a perfect, light texture.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Just a pinch enhances and balances the flavors beautifully.
- Whole milk (1/4 cup, room temperature): Adds richness and keeps the bread moist without weighing it down.
- Lemon zest (zest of 1 large lemon, divided): Infuses that fresh citrus aroma, with a bit reserved for the glaze to boost brightness.
- Unsalted butter (6 Tbsp, softened): For creamy richness that tenderizes every bite.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the bread, balancing the tang from the lemon and tartness from the berries.
- Eggs (2 large, room temperature): They bind everything together and help create a lovely, tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a warm, subtle depth of flavor.
- Blueberries (1 1/2 cups, rinsed and patted dry): The star ingredient, bursting with juicy sweetness in every slice.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Used for the silky-smooth glaze that finishes the bread with a sweet shine.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 1/2 to 2 Tbsp): Combined with powdered sugar to make that tangy glaze to drizzle on top.
How to Make Blueberry Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing or lining a loaf pan. This is a crucial step to ensure your bread releases easily once baked. While the oven warms up, set your butter and eggs out to reach room temperature, which helps them mix in smoothly, resulting in a tender texture. Dust the blueberries lightly with 1/2 tablespoon of flour to keep them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This combination forms the base for your bread, and mixing these ingredients helps distribute the leavening agent evenly so the bread rises perfectly.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it’s light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air into the mix, which is what makes your bread light and tender.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Lemon Zest
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of the lemon zest to infuse bright citrus notes throughout the batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding the dry flour mixture and the milk into the creamed butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently just until combined — overmixing can make the bread tough, so it’s key to keep your batter light.
Step 6: Fold in Blueberries
Gently fold in the floured blueberries using a spatula to distribute them evenly. This ensures bursts of juicy blueberry goodness in every bite without turning the batter purple.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with the comforting aroma of blueberries and lemon. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Step 8: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the reserved 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more juice or sugar until it’s thick but pourable.
Step 9: Glaze the Bread
Once the bread has cooled completely, drizzle the lemon glaze generously over the top. The glaze adds a glossy finish and a bright, tangy flavor that complements the sweet bread beautifully.
How to Serve Blueberry Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra-special presentation, sprinkle some fresh lemon zest or a handful of fresh blueberries over the glaze while it’s still wet. This adds a pop of color and freshness that really makes the loaf look irresistible.
Side Dishes
This Blueberry Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a relaxed breakfast or brunch. For a heartier brunch spread, serve alongside creamy Greek yogurt or a dollop of mascarpone to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread thick and toast it lightly for a crunchy twist. You can also cut it into small squares and serve as bite-sized treats at parties. Another fun idea is using the bread as a base for a berry and cream cheese dessert toast, drizzling extra lemon glaze on top for a luscious finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your leftover blueberry bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and delicious for about 2 to 3 days—perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this bread freezes really well. Just wrap it firmly in plastic wrap and then in foil or a freezer bag. When properly stored, it keeps its flavor and texture for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To enjoy your Blueberry Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe warm, pop slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. Warming enhances the flavors and softens the bread nicely, making it feel freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work just fine, but be sure to thaw and drain them well, then pat dry before dusting with flour to prevent excess moisture from making the bread soggy.
What can I substitute for whole milk?
You can use any milk you have on hand like 2%, skim, or even a non-dairy alternative such as almond or oat milk. Just keep the quantity the same and make sure it’s at room temperature for best results.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a reliable gluten-free baking mix that contains xanthan gum, you should get great results. The texture might differ slightly, but the flavor will still shine.
How long does the lemon glaze stay fresh?
The glaze is best used right after making for the freshest taste and texture. If you need to store it, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week — just stir it before using as it might thicken.
Is this bread suitable for freezing after glazing?
It’s best to freeze the bread before glazing to avoid the glaze losing its texture. Freeze the plain loaf, then thaw fully before applying the lemon glaze for a fresh finish.
Final Thoughts
This Blueberry Bread with Lemon Glaze Recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I have a feeling it might in yours too. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like sunshine on a plate, perfect for sharing or savoring on your own with a cozy drink. Give it a try and enjoy every sweet, citrusy bite—you’re in for a real treat!
