Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread

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

Highlighted under: Oven Kitchen

I absolutely adore baking, and this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread has become one of my favorites! The combination of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon makes for a delightful treat that’s perfect with a cup of tea. Each slice is moist and bursting with flavor, and it fills my kitchen with the most wonderful aroma. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a quick breakfast idea, this bread never fails to impress. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience the joy it brings!

Created by

Maribel Hawthorne

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:57:35.005Z

Baking this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread is not just about following a recipe; it's an experience that fills my home with warmth and comfort. I remember the first time I decided to add lemon zest to my usual blueberry bread; it created a flavor profile that was tangy and sweet at the same time. This technique works wonders in elevating the taste, making each bite an exciting contrast of flavors.

The best part? I found that letting the bread cool completely before slicing allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more delicious loaf. Trust me, patience pays off when you can enjoy that perfect slice alongside your favorite cup of tea!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing lemon flavor that complements the sweetness of blueberries
A moist and tender crumb that pairs perfectly with tea
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for brunches or afternoon snacks

The Role of Each Ingredient

Understanding the role of each ingredient is crucial for achieving the perfect Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread. For instance, the fresh blueberries not only bring sweetness and moisture but also add vibrant color, making the bread visually appealing. Furthermore, lemon zest enhances the overall flavor profile, providing brightness that balances the natural sweetness of the blueberries. The combination of buttermilk and eggs contributes to a tender crumb and helps maintain moisture during baking.

The choice of butter in this recipe is significant as well. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the bread more effectively, while creaming it with sugar introduces air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter texture. Be sure to use room temperature butter for optimal creaming. If you need a dairy-free option, consider substituting with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative, keeping in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

Perfecting the Mixing Technique

When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, it’s important not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense and gummy texture, which is not what you want in a light and fluffy tea bread. Instead, mix until just combined, allowing some lumps to remain for a tender crumb. I recommend using a rubber spatula for gently folding in the blueberries, as they can crush easily. This careful approach helps maintain the integrity of the berries, providing delightful bursts of flavor in every bite.

If your batter seems too thick, a splash more buttermilk can help achieve the right consistency. Conversely, if it's too runny, additional flour, a little at a time, should solve the problem. As you’re folding in the blueberries, keep a close eye on the batter's texture; it's better to err on the side of caution for a soft and moist tea bread.

Ingredients

For the Bread

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

Make sure to wash the blueberries and coat them lightly in flour to prevent sinking while baking.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large 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 Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the buttermilk, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the blueberries.

Bake

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

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your homemade Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread with a cup of your favorite tea!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle a simple lemon glaze over the cooled bread for added sweetness and flavor.

Storage and Freshness Tips

To keep your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay moist for about three days. If you plan to enjoy it later, consider refrigerating it, which extends its life to about a week. Just remember to let it reach room temperature before serving for the best texture. Avoid keeping it in the refrigerator for too long, as that can dryness out the bread.

For longer-term storage, this tea bread freezes beautifully! Slice it into individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds—just enough to take the chill off!

Serving Suggestions

This delightful tea bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. A dollop of whipped cream or a smear of butter complements the lemon and blueberry flavors perfectly, making it a luxurious treat for brunch. Alternatively, you can enjoy it plain with a hot cup of herbal tea or coffee. For an added twist, consider drizzling a simple glaze over the top for a touch of sweetness that enhances the lemon notes.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating nuts like slivered almonds or pecans for added crunch. A tablespoon of poppy seeds would also complement the lemon flavor beautifully. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly, as added ingredients may change the bake's consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to add them straight from the freezer to avoid them becoming mushy.

→ How should I store the bread?

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

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I serve it with?

It's delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with butter, cream cheese, or a dollop of whipped cream.