Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread

Name: Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh blueberries; 1 lemon (zested and juiced); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk

Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights

I love baking, and this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread has become one of my go-to recipes. The vibrant flavor of fresh blueberries combined with zesty lemon creates a delightful treat that not only serves as a perfect afternoon snack but also pairs beautifully with tea or coffee. Each slice is moist and tender, making it hard to resist. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is simply heavenly. If you're looking for an easy-to-follow recipe that delivers exceptional taste, you’ve just found it!

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-02-01T19:09:36.015Z

I remember the first time I baked this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread. It was a rainy day, and I needed something comforting. The combination of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon just felt right. As I mixed the ingredients, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to pull together. The batter looked so colorful and inviting! This recipe truly showcases how simple ingredients can create something special.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Depending on what I have on hand, sometimes I add a dash of vanilla extract or even a sprinkle of almonds on top for added texture. Each variation is fantastic in its own way! I’ve found that using fresh blueberries gives the best flavor, but frozen works too in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust your baking time if needed!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delicious blend of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon
Perfectly moist texture that satisfies every bite
Ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack

Understanding the Ingredients

The unique flavor profile of this Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread comes primarily from the fresh blueberries and zesty lemon. Fresh blueberries are essential here; they provide both moisture and natural sweetness. When selecting blueberries, look for plump, firm berries with a deep blue color. Frozen blueberries can be used in a pinch, but they might make the batter a bit soggy, so consider reducing the buttermilk slightly if using frozen.

Lemon zest is another star of this recipe. It contains essential oils that pack a punch of citrus flavor. Using a microplane to zest your lemon will give you the finest zest and avoid incorporating any bitter pith. Make sure to use a fresh lemon for the best juice; bottled lemon juice doesn't have the same bright, fresh taste, which is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the blueberries.

Technique Tips for Success

When creaming the butter and sugar, take your time—mixing for about 3 to 5 minutes will ensure it becomes light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for a good rise. If you're short on time, try using room temperature butter for easier mixing. If the mixture looks grainy, continue mixing; it will become smooth as you add the eggs. Remember, adding the eggs slowly one at a time allows for better emulsification.

Gently folding in the blueberries at the end is crucial for maintaining their shape. Stir too vigorously, and you risk breaking them down, which can turn the batter a lovely shade of blue but detracts from the visual appeal. Use a spatula for this step, and turn the bowl as you fold to ensure an even distribution without overmixing.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To store your Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, which can extend its life to about a week. You can also freeze sliced bread; just place parchment between slices and store in an airtight container for up to three months. Thawing slices in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds works perfectly.

For serving, consider a drizzle of lemon glaze on top for an extra touch of sweetness and lemon flavor. Simply mix powdered sugar with a little lemon juice until you achieve a drizzling consistency. Pairing this bread with light herbal teas or a rich cup of coffee enhances the flavors, making it not just a snack but a delightful experience.

Ingredients

For the Bread

1 cup fresh blueberries
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix just until combined. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a lemon glaze on top. Simply mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until you reach your desired consistency and drizzle over the cooled bread.

Common Troubleshooting

If your bread rises unevenly or has a dome shape, it might be due to overmixing the batter. This creates excess gluten, leading to a tougher texture. Make sure to mix until just combined and remember to gently fold in the blueberries. For a more even rise, rotate the pan halfway through baking, especially in older ovens where heat distribution may not be consistent.

Another common issue is a dry bread. This can occur if you overbake it. The toothpick test is key; remove it from the oven as soon as the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. If your bread is too dry, consider adjusting your oven's temperature or checking that your ingredients are fresh, as old baking powder or soda can affect rise and moisture.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative! Swap out the blueberries for other berries like raspberries or chopped strawberries. Just remember that different fruits may contain varying moisture levels, so adjust the buttermilk accordingly. You could also add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch and additional flavor contrast with the soft bread.

For a more decadent touch, you can mix in some white or dark chocolate chips alongside the blueberries. This adds a luscious sweetness and a bit of richness, complementing the tartness of the lemon perfectly. If you're looking to cut down on sugar, consider using a sugar substitute specifically designed for baking, adjusting the amount to the brand's guidelines.

Make-Ahead Ideas

This Blueberry Lemon Tea Bread is a great make-ahead option, perfect for busy mornings or gatherings. You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just ensure you cover it tightly to prevent any odors from affecting the flavors. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before pouring it into the loaf pan.

Alternatively, you can bake it ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. Slice it before storing to make it easy to grab a piece whenever you want a snack. It also makes a thoughtful gift; just wrap it in pretty paper and include a note suggesting to serve it with a cup of tea or coffee.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes! Frozen blueberries work well, but do not thaw them before adding. Just fold them into the batter straight from the freezer.

→ How can I store leftover tea bread?

Wrap the bread in plastic wrap and 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 recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then bake it the next day.

→ What can I pair with this bread?

This tea bread pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee. You could also enjoy it with a light spread of cream cheese for added flavor.