Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread

Name: Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 slices
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; ½ cup buttermilk; 1 cup fresh blueberries

Highlighted under: Everyday Baking Joy

I absolutely love baking this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread when I want a quick yet delightful treat. The combination of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon creates a refreshing flavor that brightens any afternoon. I've found that using fresh lemon zest really elevates this recipe, imparting a vibrant aroma that fills the kitchen. In just under an hour, you can whip up this delicious bread that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. It's a wonderful way to share a little joy with family and friends!

Created by

Aubrey Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-10T16:51:36.442Z

When I first baked this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, I was surprised by how quickly it came together. The method of folding the blueberries into the batter gently ensures that they don't burst completely, giving each slice a beautiful burst of flavor without turning the whole loaf purple. I also discovered that using room temperature eggs helps create a lighter texture in the bread.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Sometimes, I’ll swap out the blueberries for raspberries or add a hint of almond extract for a different twist. Each time, I’m reminded of how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Trust me, this bread will become a staple in your baking routine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet blueberries and tangy lemon.
A delightful aroma that fills your home while baking.
Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh blueberries is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread. Frozen berries can result in a mushy consistency and may release excess moisture during baking, leading to a denser loaf. If you must use frozen blueberries, ensure they are fully thawed and pat them dry to absorb some moisture before folding them into the batter. This simple step can make a significant difference in your final product.

Similarly, fresh lemons for zest and juice contribute to the vibrant flavor profile of this bread. Don’t ignore the importance of zest—its essential oils give the bread a delightful aroma and an intense lemony taste that can't be replicated with bottled lemon juice. Invest in a microplane zester for the best results, as it captures the zest without the bitter pith.

Baking Techniques for Success

To ensure even baking, consider using an oven thermometer to verify that your oven is calibrated correctly. Ovens can sometimes run hotter or cooler than indicated, which might affect your baking time. It’s best to check for doneness a few minutes early—around the 45-minute mark—by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, but not wet batter.

Mixing is another vital component. When alternately adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, do so gently to avoid overmixing, which can create a tough texture. Stop mixing as soon as the batter is just combined—small lumps are okay. This will help maintain a light and tender crumb in your finished bread, enhancing the overall texture and making each slice delightful.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread:

Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons lemon zest
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ cup buttermilk
1 cup fresh blueberries

Make sure to rinse the blueberries and pat them dry before adding them to the batter.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.

Fold in Blueberries

Gently fold in the blueberries until evenly distributed.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Once cooled, slice and serve with your favorite beverage!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top just before baking for a crunchy topping.

Storage Options

To keep your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. If well wrapped, it generally lasts for about 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a piece whenever you like without the whole loaf going stale.

When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen bread, simply remove the desired number of slices from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop them in the toaster for a quick warm-up. Reheating in a toaster not only brings back the moistness but also enhances the bread's flavor profile with a pleasant golden crust.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread with a spread of cream cheese or lemon curd to complement its flavors. The creamy texture and slight tang from these spreads contrast beautifully with the sweet bread, creating an indulgent treat. For an afternoon tea gathering, serve it with a selection of herbal teas or iced lemon water, enhancing the refreshing citrus notes.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider using leftover bread in a brunch recipe by turning it into a French toast casserole. Simply slice the bread, layer it in a baking dish, and pour an egg mixture over it, then bake until golden. This not only reimagines your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread but also makes for a wonderful way to enjoy it at breakfast or brunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

→ How should I store the bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and bake in two separate pans.

→ Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a delicious addition.