Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Loaf

Name: Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Loaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk

Highlighted under: Simply Sweet Bakes

I absolutely love making this Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Loaf! The bright citrus flavor combined with juicy blueberries creates a delightful way to start the day, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible. It's incredible how just a handful of ingredients can come together to make something so delicious and comforting. I often prepare this loaf on weekends, and my family can't resist having a slice or two with their morning coffee. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the weekend!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-02-01T17:45:36.275Z

Making the Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Loaf was such a joy, especially when I discovered how well the tartness of the lemon balances the sweetness of the blueberries. The key to achieving a moist loaf is to not overmix the batter; just stir until the ingredients are combined and the blueberries are evenly dispersed.

One of my favorite tips is to add a little lemon zest to the glaze while it’s still warm. This not only enhances the lemon flavor but also gives it a lovely, glossy finishing touch. Trust me, your breakfast or brunch guests will be begging for the recipe!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing lemon flavor invigorates your morning.
Juicy blueberries add sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.
Easy to make, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy brunch.

Understanding Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Loaf plays a vital role in creating its unique flavor and texture. The lemons not only bring brightness but also activate the baking soda, helping the loaf rise. Fresh blueberries provide natural sweetness and moisture, ensuring the loaf remains tender. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness, while buttermilk enhances the loaf’s richness and acidity, contributing to a lighter crumb structure.

If you're in a pinch, fresh blueberries can be substituted with frozen ones. Just be sure to add them straight from the freezer, as thawed blueberries may release too much moisture, making the batter overly wet. For those avoiding dairy, almond milk or coconut milk can replace buttermilk, and adding a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice will mimic the acidity needed for the recipe.

Baking Tips

When mixing your batter, it's crucial to avoid overmixing after adding the dry ingredients. To achieve a perfectly light and fluffy loaf, stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated. A few lumps here and there are perfectly fine. This is where the gentle folding of blueberries comes in; it not only preserves their integrity but also prevents the batter from turning purple from over-mixing.

If you're unsure about your loaf's doneness, use the toothpick test but keep in mind that underbaking can lead to a dense texture. Ideally, the top of the loaf should be golden brown, and a toothpick should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached, not wet batter. If your loaf starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it finishes baking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, it's time to start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for the perfect loaf:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Add Blueberries

Fold in the fresh blueberries gently to avoid breaking them.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious blueberry lemon loaf!

Enjoy your freshly baked loaf, perfect for breakfast or as a delicious snack!

Pro Tips

Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch, or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Loaf can be made ahead of time, perfect for busy mornings. To store, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to enjoy it later, consider freezing slices. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents them from sticking together, allowing for easy grab-and-go servings.

When reheating, take slices directly from the freezer and microwave them for about 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can toast them for a delightful warm breakfast treat. A light spread of butter or a sprinkle of lemon zest on top after reheating can elevate the flavor even more!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Blueberry Lemon Breakfast Loaf with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of lemon glaze for an extra touch of sweetness and a zesty kick. A sprinkle of powdered sugar can also add an elegant finish when serving at brunch gatherings. Pair it with a fresh fruit salad to brighten the plate and balance the sweetness of the loaf.

For a fun twist, consider turning this loaf into French toast. Simply slice the loaf, dip it into a mixture of whisked eggs, milk, and a touch of cinnamon, then cook on a buttered skillet until golden on both sides. Serve with maple syrup and a handful of fresh blueberries to bring the flavors full circle!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure not to thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

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

→ Can I substitute the buttermilk?

Absolutely! You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk or add a tablespoon of vinegar to milk to make a quick buttermilk substitute.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, this loaf freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge when you're ready to enjoy!