Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful way to brighten up your breakfast or snack time, then you’ve come to the right place! This Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread is not just a treat for your taste buds, but it also fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma. The blend of fresh blueberries and zesty Meyer lemons creates a moist, flavorful bread that feels like a warm hug in every slice.

This recipe has become a cherished favorite in our home, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and delicious, or at family gatherings where everyone loves to dig in. Plus, it’s easy enough to whip up on a lazy Sunday morning while sipping your coffee!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet-tart flavor combo of blueberries and lemons.
• Make-ahead option: Bake a loaf in advance and enjoy it throughout the week; it stays deliciously moist!
• Versatile enjoyment: Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert—this bread fits any occasion wonderfully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. The combination of butter, sugar, and fresh fruit creates a delightful base for this Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread.

For the Bread

• 1 cup butter, salted
• 1.5 cups sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 3 cups all purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup 2% milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla
• 2 cups blueberries, tossed in 2 teaspoons flour

For the Lemony Glaze

• 1/3 cup lemon juice
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 cup sifted powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and texture.
• Try other fruits: Swap blueberries for raspberries or strawberries if you want a different fruity flavor.
• Infuse with herbs: Add some fresh thyme or rosemary to the batter for an unexpected herbal twist.
• Make it chocolatey: Fold in some chocolate chips for a sweet surprise!

How to Make Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your two 10-inch loaf pans ready by buttering and flouring them well. This ensures that our lovely bread comes out easily after baking!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the sugar, butter, and lemon zest until it’s light and fluffy—about 4-5 minutes. This step is crucial because aerating the mixture helps create a soft texture in our bread. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla and milk until everything is beautifully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Slowly add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while beating just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; we want our bread tender! Gently fold in those juicy blueberries by hand so they stay intact.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Divide your batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes or until you see that golden brown top, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly!

Step 5: Make the Lemon Syrup

While those loaves are baking away, make your lemon syrup by combining lemon juice and sugar in a small saucepan. Simmer it over medium heat until slightly reduced and thickened—about 5 minutes will do. Set it aside to cool; this syrup adds such lovely flavor!

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, let your loaves cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cool them further for another 10 minutes before poking holes all over with a long skewer—it allows that delicious syrup to soak into every bite!

Step 7: Brush with Syrup

Using a brush or spoon, generously apply that cooled syrup over each loaf while they finish cooling down completely (about an hour). This step adds an extra layer of sweetness that you won’t want to miss.

Step 8: Glaze It Up

Finally, whisk together sifted powdered sugar with the remaining lemon juice to create your glaze. Pour this luscious mixture over each cooled loaf just before serving!

And there you have it—a stunning Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread ready to delight friends and family alike! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll create the most amazing Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread!

• Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh blueberries not only taste better, but they also add moisture to the bread. If you can, pick them yourself or buy them from a local farmer’s market for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of that delightful fluffy texture we all crave.
• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your loaves at around 50 minutes to ensure they don’t overbake. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when they are finished.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the loaves to cool completely before adding the glaze. This helps it set properly and prevents it from melting off into a puddle.
• Experiment with Citrus Zest: While lemon is delicious, feel free to mix in some lime or orange zest for a fun twist on flavor! It keeps things fresh and exciting.

How to Serve Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread

Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Presenting it beautifully can make it even more enjoyable!

Garnishes

• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint on top of each slice add a pop of color and an aromatic touch.
• Lemon Slices: Thinly sliced lemons arranged artfully on your serving platter enhance the lemony goodness and make for an eye-catching display.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt with Honey: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey adds richness that balances the tartness of the bread.
• Mixed Berry Salad: A refreshing salad made with mixed berries can complement the flavors while adding freshness to your meal.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, pairs wonderfully with this sweet bread, making it perfect for brunch or afternoon tea.
• Cottage Cheese: A side of cottage cheese provides a protein boost and creamy texture that pairs nicely with the sweetness of the bread.

Enjoy your baking adventure and savor every slice of this delightful Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat it properly to maintain its deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Place the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature.
• It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
• For longer storage, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its shelf life by a few more days.

Freezing

• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your packaging with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the bread from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• For a quick warm-up, microwave slices on low for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread that I often hear:

Can I substitute other fruits in Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread?

Absolutely! You can replace blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or even diced peaches. Just make sure to toss them in flour as well before adding to the batter for better distribution.

How do I keep my Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread moist?

Keeping your Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread covered while it cools helps retain moisture. Additionally, using room temperature ingredients like eggs and milk can help achieve that tender crumb.

What makes Meyer Lemon different from regular lemons?

Meyer lemons are sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons. They have a unique flavor that combines citrus notes with a hint of floral sweetness, making your bread extra special!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives for a delicious vegan version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Meyer Lemon Blueberry Bread as much as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon that brings sunshine to any table. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, it’s sure to be a hit! Don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe—experimenting is part of the joy of baking. Happy baking!