Blueberry Lemon Rustic Loaf

Name: Blueberry Lemon Rustic Loaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 cup milk; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Whisked Wonders

I absolutely love baking, and nothing brings a smile to my face quite like the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. The combination of blueberries and lemon in this rustic loaf is not only vibrant but adds a delightful twist to the traditional flavor. Baking this loaf is simple, yet the results are stunning. The juicy berries and zesty lemon create a perfect harmony that elevates any breakfast or afternoon tea. I truly believe this loaf will become a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-16T11:41:37.467Z

When I first tried incorporating lemon into my blueberry bread, I was amazed at how the zesty flavor uplifted the whole dish. The blueberries burst with sweetness, while the lemon provides a refreshing contrast that makes every bite a joy. This is the perfect loaf to impress guests or suffice a sweet tooth craving.

What I love most about this rustic loaf is its versatility; it’s great for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. I also found that using fresh blueberries instead of frozen ones gives the best flavor and texture, so I always opt for the freshest ingredients available.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A harmonious blend of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon
Crusty exterior with a soft, moist interior
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion

Choosing the Right Blueberries

When selecting blueberries for this rustic loaf, fresh berries are ideal due to their plumpness and natural sweetness. Look for firm, juicy blueberries with a vibrant color. If fresh blueberries are unavailable, you can opt for frozen ones; just be sure to mix them in directly while still frozen to prevent them from bleeding into the batter. This will help maintain the rustic loaf's distinct appearance and balance of flavors.

Additionally, if you are looking for dietary alternatives, feel free to use different berries like raspberries or blackberries. Each type will impart its unique flavor profile, slightly altering the loaf's sweetness and tartness. Remember to adjust the quantity according to the size of the berries; for example, if using raspberries, you might need to reduce the amount slightly due to their more potent flavor.

Perfecting Your Loaf Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in your blueberry lemon rustic loaf involves careful handling of the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, while undermixing may cause uneven distribution of blueberries. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined—some lumps are acceptable and will bake out. This technique allows the loaf to rise beautifully, creating a moist interior complemented by a crusty exterior.

Another tip is to ensure your butter is melted but not too hot when mixing it with other wet ingredients. If the butter is too hot, it can cook the egg when added, resulting in a lumpy batter. Aim for a warm, but not scalding, temperature to create a cohesive mixture that enhances the loaf's overall structure.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Blueberry Lemon Rustic Loaf:

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 cup milk
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Juice of 1 lemon

Make sure everything is mixed thoroughly for the best results!

Instructions

Let’s get started on baking this delicious loaf!

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan and set it aside.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Add Blueberries and Zest

Gently fold in the fresh blueberries and lemon zest until evenly distributed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix milk, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.

Bake the Loaf

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and enjoy your delicious Blueberry Lemon Rustic Loaf!

Pro Tips

For an extra lemony flavor, drizzle a simple lemon glaze on top once the loaf has cooled.

Storage Tips

Once your rustic loaf has completely cooled, it can be stored wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze the loaf by wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply defrost in the refrigerator overnight and let it sit at room temperature before serving.

In case you want to serve slices at a later time, consider cutting the loaf into individual portions before freezing. This way, you can take out just what you need, preventing waste and ensuring freshness each time you serve.

Serving Suggestions

This blueberry lemon rustic loaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings. I love to spread a thin layer of cream cheese for an extra creamy texture that complements the tangy flavor of the lemon. For a healthier option, serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon, which adds warmth and balance to the dish.

For special occasions, you might consider toasting slices lightly and drizzling them with a mixture of honey and lemon juice for added sweetness and brightness. This adds a lovely inviting aroma and enhances the loaf’s flavor profile, making it a delightful centerpiece for brunch or afternoon tea.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to add them directly from the freezer to prevent them from bleeding too much into the batter.

→ How should I store the loaf?

Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Can I add nuts to the loaf?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a great addition for some extra crunch.

→ Is it possible to make this loaf gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and it should work just fine.