There’s something so comforting about the smell of fresh Lemon Blueberry Bread baking in the oven. The sweet aroma of blueberries combined with the zingy freshness of lemon creates a truly irresistible treat. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household, especially during spring and summer when blueberries are in peak season.

I first made this bread on a whim after finding an abundance of fresh blueberries at the farmer's market. Since then, it's become a go-to for weekend brunches, family gatherings, and even as a simple breakfast. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and everyone loves it.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Blueberry Bread

Get ready to fall in love with this delightful Lemon Blueberry Bread! It's a must-try for anyone who enjoys fresh, homemade baked goods with a burst of flavor.

First and foremost, the combination of lemon and blueberry is a match made in heaven. The tartness of the lemon beautifully balances the sweetness of the blueberries, giving each bite a refreshing lift that’s perfect any time of day.

This recipe is also super simple to make. Whether you're a baking pro or a beginner, you’ll find the instructions easy to follow, and the ingredients are likely already in your kitchen.

Another reason to love this bread is its versatility. It can be a sweet breakfast, a midday snack, or a lovely dessert. Serve it with a drizzle of lemon glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar to make it even more special.

And let’s not forget – it’s freezer-friendly! You can easily make a double batch and freeze a loaf for later. Perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests.

Ingredients Notes

The ingredients for this Lemon Blueberry Bread are straightforward, but each plays an essential role in achieving the perfect texture and taste.

All-purpose flour: This gives the bread its structure. For best results, make sure to measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
Fresh blueberries: Fresh blueberries work best in this recipe, as they hold their shape during baking. However, you can use frozen blueberries as well – just toss them in a bit of flour before adding them to the batter to prevent them from sinking.
Lemon zest and juice: The zest adds a bright, citrusy flavor that’s essential to this bread. Be sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best taste, and zest the lemon before juicing to make things easier.
Greek yogurt or sour cream: This ingredient keeps the bread moist and adds a subtle tang. Greek yogurt is my preference for a slightly healthier option, but sour cream works wonderfully too.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents help the bread rise and create a light, fluffy texture. Be sure to use fresh baking powder and soda for optimal results.

If you have a microplane zester and a hand-held juicer, they’ll make preparing the lemon zest and juice a breeze. A loaf pan and a whisk are also essential tools for this recipe.

How to Make This Lemon Blueberry Bread

Making Lemon Blueberry Bread is simpler than you might think. Let’s break it down step-by-step to ensure you get perfect results every time.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your loaf pan. Grease it well or line it with parchment paper, making sure there’s some overhang for easy removal.
Combine the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Mix the wet ingredients. In another bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and Greek yogurt (or sour cream) until well combined.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. This will keep the bread tender. Once mostly combined, carefully fold in the blueberries, reserving a few to sprinkle on top if desired.
Bake the bread. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.

After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The flavors will develop even more as it cools, making each slice extra delicious!

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, this Lemon Blueberry Bread stores beautifully.

Room temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Be sure to wrap it well to maintain its freshness.
Refrigerator: To extend its shelf life, store the bread in the refrigerator for up to a week. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just thaw a slice at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating is a breeze. For a warm slice, simply microwave for about 10 seconds, or warm it up in a low oven for a few minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Lemon Blueberry Bread is how adaptable it can be. Here are a few fun ways to change it up:

Add a lemon glaze: Drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the top for extra sweetness. Just mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until you get a pourable consistency.
Use different berries: Try swapping blueberries for raspberries or blackberries for a twist on this classic. Each berry adds its own unique flavor to the bread.
Make it dairy-free: Substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt, and use a vegan butter substitute.
Add a streusel topping: If you want a little crunch, sprinkle a streusel topping over the batter before baking. Combine flour, sugar, and cold butter for a crumbly topping that’s a delightful addition.
Go for whole-wheat flour: If you want to make it a bit healthier, try using half all-purpose flour and half whole-wheat flour. It adds a slightly nutty flavor and extra fiber without sacrificing too much tenderness.

This Lemon Blueberry Bread is a versatile recipe you can customize to suit your tastes. Enjoy experimenting with new twists, and you might just find a new favorite!