Lemon Blueberry Loaf

May be an image of cake

Lemon Blueberry Loaf: A Bright, Moist Bake Bursting with Flavor

Few baked treats feel as fresh and inviting as a Lemon Blueberry Loaf. This classic loaf cake balances the zesty sparkle of lemon with juicy bursts of blueberries, all wrapped in a soft, tender crumb. It’s the kind of bake that works just as beautifully for a relaxed breakfast as it does for an afternoon treat or light dessert. Below is a complete, step-by-step guide to making a loaf that’s fragrant, moist, and full of flavor from edge to center.

Why Lemon and Blueberry Are a Perfect Match

Lemon brings brightness and acidity, which enhances the natural sweetness of blueberries. When baked together, the citrus aroma perfumes the loaf while the berries soften and release their juices, creating little pockets of flavor throughout the cake. The result is a loaf that tastes fresh, balanced, and never too heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the loaf:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Eggs, at room temperature
Fresh lemon zest
Fresh lemon juice
Milk or yogurt (for moisture)
Vanilla extract
Fresh or frozen blueberries

Optional lemon glaze:

Powdered sugar
Fresh lemon juice

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan thoroughly and line it with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides. This makes removing the loaf easy and keeps the edges clean and intact.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed, helping the loaf rise evenly as it bakes.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which is key to achieving a light, tender texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. The batter will become fragrant at this stage, with the citrus aroma standing out.