Baking & Desserts Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake

Name: Baking & Desserts Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Highlighted under: Whisked Wonders

I absolutely love baking, and this Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake has quickly become a favorite in our household. The bright flavor of fresh lemons combined with juicy blueberries creates a delightful balance that’s perfect for any occasion. The moist, tender crumb is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a simple dessert after dinner, this loaf cake brings a taste of sunshine to the table. Join me in making this delightful treat that’s bound to impress family and friends!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:41:34.574Z

When I first made this Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together. The tartness of the lemon really enhances the sweetness of the blueberries, creating a harmonious dessert that brightens your palate. I love adding a little lemon glaze on top to elevate the flavor even further!

One essential tip I learned is to fold the blueberries gently into the batter, preventing them from bursting and turning the loaf blue. This ensures each slice has that beautiful marbling effect, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty lemon flavor balanced with sweet blueberries
Moist and tender crumb that's simple to make
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When baking this Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake, the quality of your ingredients significantly affects the outcome. Fresh blueberries are crucial; they not only bring natural sweetness but also moisture. If frozen blueberries are your only option, make sure to toss them in a bit of flour before adding to the batter to prevent them from sinking. Additionally, using high-quality butter, such as unsalted European-style, provides a richer flavor and creamier texture that elevates the cake.

The zest of a fresh lemon adds vibrant flavor and aroma to the loaf cake, while the acidity from lemon juice helps to tenderize the crumb. For the best results, make sure to zest the lemons just before using them to preserve their essential oils. If you need a lemon substitute, consider using lime zest, although it will yield a slightly different flavor. Remember, the balance of these ingredients is key for a moist, flavorful cake.

Mastering the Technique

One of the fundamental techniques in baking this loaf cake is the creaming method. By beating the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, you incorporate air into the batter, which contributes to the cake’s rise and airy texture. Take your time—this step should ideally take about 3 to 5 minutes using a stand mixer or hand mixer. Avoid rushing it; under-creaming can lead to a dense cake.

When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a tough crumb. You want to see a few lumps remain in your batter—it’s okay, and it will help produce that tender texture we aim for. Additionally, pour the batter into the loaf pan right after mixing and avoid letting it sit too long, as this can affect how well the cake rises.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the process smoother.

For the Cake

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

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a perfect loaf cake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Lemon Juice

Beat in the eggs, lemon zest, and lemon juice until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk.

Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the fresh blueberries until evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Glaze

While the cake cools, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice to create a glaze.

Glaze the Cake

Once cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top of the loaf cake.

Serve

Slice and enjoy your delicious Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake!

Let it cool completely before slicing for the best texture.

Pro Tips

Using fresh blueberries is key for the best flavor, but you can substitute with frozen if needed. Just keep them frozen until you mix them into the batter to prevent them from bleeding into the cake.

Storage Tips

This Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to a week. If you prefer, you can also freeze the cake for up to three months. Just ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn; defrost overnight in the fridge when you're ready to enjoy a slice.

If you want to extend its freshness, consider freezing individual slices. This way, you can take out only what you need. For a quick treat, warm the slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds; the cake will be delightful and moist, reminiscent of fresh out of the oven.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Lemon Blueberry Loaf Cake further, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This pairing enhances the citrus notes and adds a creamy contrast that many find irresistible. A light dusting of additional powdered sugar on top of the glaze before serving can make for an elegant presentation, especially for gatherings.

For a brunch setting, slice the cake and serve it alongside fresh berries or a fruit compote. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the flavors of the loaf in a refreshing way. For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh mint on the side for an aromatic touch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, just ensure they are added directly from the freezer to avoid them bleeding into the batter.

→ How should I store the loaf cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Certainly! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of milk?

You can substitute with almond milk or any non-dairy alternative.